Rita Cook, of Alton, watched Jaris Waide, of Godfrey, grow up and live a robust and active life.
So when the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville alumna learned of the disabilities Waide suffered because of a severe asthma attack, Cook was eager to help Waide’s non-profit LungSmarter Foundation promote asthma education, and raise money for asthma-related medical equipment for the Godfrey Fire Protection District.
Waide, founder and president of LungSmarter, hosted her 19th annual LungSmarter asthma awareness event held May 4 and May 18 in Godfrey. This year’s event netted approximately $8,000 in donations and pledges. The events included instructions on what to relay to emergency officials when calling for someone suffering from an asthma or breathing-related attack, and CPR demonstrated by Godfrey fire fighters.
“I’ve been involved with LungSmarter from the very beginning. I was glad to continue my contributions this year,” said Cook, a retired teacher who earned a bachelor’s in elementary education from SIUE in 1968. “I have early memories of Jaris. I used to babysit her. She used to dance in the children’s chorus for The Muny. Jaris has always been extremely active. After her asthma attack, however, all that changed.”
Waide’s journey of physical challenges began in 1998, when she had a devastating asthma attack. When paramedics arrived, Waide was unresponsive. A lack of oxygen to Waide’s brain left her with mobility and speech problems. She is also legally blind.
“There was a need for me to find purpose, despite a devastating, life-altering injury,” wrote Waide in an email from her computer, which has talking software. “I don’t want anyone to suffer like I did. Dealing with this day after day and year after year is exhausting. There are many obstacles to overcome.”
Yet, Waide chooses to summon strength every day. “I found a purpose for living through my asthma awareness work. I began my fundraisers in 2000 with the first letter of the alphabet, ‘A is for Asthma,” she continued. “I’m strongly motivated. This year was ‘S is for Sustainability.’ I hope to finish the alphabet, God willing.”
Waide also hopes to raise at least $50,000. So far, she has raised approximately $40,000. The SIUE School of Nursing has teamed up with Waide in past years.
“Three out of five children will experience breathing difficulties, especially during the changing of seasons,” reported Waide. “Most missed school days are attributed to asthma and breathing difficulties, therefore, LungSmarter continues to reach out and work with local schools and other community organizations.”
“After her asthma attack, Jaris was on feeding tubes. Where she is now is absolutely amazing,” offered Cook. “Her dedication, commitment and spirit are admirable. All of her efforts are so others won’t be devastated by asthma.”
In response to that, Waide quotes environmentalist Drew Hudson, “Everyone has the right to breathe!”
For more information on LungSmarter, contact Waide at jaris@piasanet.com or jaris@lungsmarter.com.
Photo:
Jaris Waide, president and founder of LungSmarter, hosted her 19th annual asthma awareness campaign in Godfrey. She is shown with Godfrey firefighters (L-R) Captain Tom Wills and Jacob Elder.