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🍂 WELCOME, OCTOBER! 🎃 Hello to all community members! 

October brings a new opportunity to focus on what helps you feel your best. 💙 For those living with BNTM, October can be a wonderful time to check in with yourself and your care routine:

🍁 Keep up with your airway clearance routine. It is okay to take an occasional break but realize the importance of the function of airway clearance.  This is a preventive measure, so mucus does not remain stagnant in your lungs.

🍁 Move: Gentle movement can help support strength and energy. It's a nice time of the year to get out for a walk- cooler temperatures, less humidity. October 9th is National Movement Day- I hope that you will join this activity.

🍁 Rest: Give your body permission to rest when you need it without feeling guilty.

🍁 Connect: Reach out to someone who understands your journey.

🍁 Prepare: Cooler weather is a good reminder to review medications, appointments, and your infection-control habits. Also, schedule your annual immunizations if you haven't already. Review the basic infection-control measures you learned throughout the pandemic, and choose which ones still work for you.

🍁 Notice the small victories you have made over the past month. Having a chronic condition requires work on our part. We all have setbacks but applaud yourself for the small victories you worked hard to achieve.

We will kick off the month with World Oxygen Day on the 2nd. This day raises awareness and acceptance of the need for oxygen and its benefits for some individuals. Medicare Open Enrollment begins on the 15th. Our Monthly Coffee Break will have a presentation on this often-confusing topic

Other educational topics that we will focus on throughout the month:  Energy Management Practices and how to be most efficient with your body/ love your lungs. We will also discuss how fall foliage and other seasonal items, such as firepits, may impact our lungs.

Lastly, we will review the basics of Health Literacy. Palliative Care. Please let us know if you have any specific questions on these topics throughout the month.  There will be a quiz at the end of the month…only kidding.  We are here to support you and to provide you with pertinent knowledge from credible sources.

A NEW TOOL FOR THE BNTM COMMUNITY! 💙📱

Living with Bronchiectasis and NTM can sometimes feel like a full-time job—keeping track of symptoms, medications, appointments, sputum cultures, questions for your health care team, and so much more. That is why we are so excited to share a new app designed to help BNTM patients stay more informed and connected to their own care.

✨ One more tool in your toolbox.

✨ One place to help keep important information at your fingertips.

✨ One more way to become an active partner in your healthcare journey.

Technology cannot replace your healthcare team—but the right tools can help you feel more prepared for conversations with them. The Care Central: Bronchiectasis & NTM is a free mobile application developed to support individuals living with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease, as well as the healthcare professionals who care for them. The app was created to improve disease management, communication, education, support, and overall quality of care for the bronchiectasis and NTM community.

For patients and caregivers, Care Central provides access to this site: BronchandNTM360social. The platform allows users to ask questions, participate in discussions, read blogs, share experiences, and engage with patients, caregivers, advocates, physicians, and healthcare professionals in a supportive environment.

The app also includes a wide range of educational resources developed and approved by experts in the field. Users can download practical educational materials such as the Bronchiectasis Action Plan, NTM Management Tool, Symptom Tracker, Wallet Card, and educational booklets designed to help patients better understand and manage their condition. These resources are designed to encourage informed conversations between patients and providers while promoting proactive disease management.

This app features access to podcasts focused on bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. These episodes include discussions with healthcare experts, patient advocates, caregivers, and individuals living with these conditions, providing listeners with current information, treatment insights, and guidance.

Another feature is helping users find nearby centers within the Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network. These specialized centers provide high-quality, expert-driven care focused on properly diagnosing and managing bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. Users can search by ZIP code, state, or address to identify expert centers closest to their home.

Healthcare professionals using the app have access to clinical tools and evidence-based resources that support patient care and treatment decision-making. Providers can also use the app to locate expert centers within the BNTM Care Center Network.

Care Central connects users directly to other Bronchiectasis and NTM Association resources, including information about actively recruiting clinical trials and relevant clinical publications. The combination of patient support, provider tools, educational content, and access to expert care resources in one centralized platform- the app serves as a comprehensive digital resource for the bronchiectasis and NTM community.

Care Central App reflects the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association’s commitment to improving education, collaboration, and quality of care for individuals affected by these chronic lung diseases.

Have you tried the new app to help manage your BNTM journey? The Care Central: Bronchiectasis & NTM App is available in the App Store and Google Play. The links are listed below.

Apple App Store: CareCentral:Bronchiectasis&NTM

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.copdfoundation.carecentralbronchandntm 

Google Play: CareCentral:Bronchiectasis&NTM

Hi Everyone,

I just got my sputum sample results from lab and it shows I have heavy amounts of  pseudomonas and steno in my lungs. 

I’m now on max dose oral Cipro.

Is this pneumonia? And will I likely have to go on another antibiotic to get rid of Steno? I get mixed diagnosis from my pulmonologist who I’m ready to drop any minute. Appreciate anyone’s comments.

After being on the three antibiotic regimen for MAC the last month, a low grade queasiness is my constant companion . Yes, I take the meds with a bit of food which helps the stomach pain, but nothing has helped the nausea feeling which is present even on the days I don’t take the meds. Anyone else deal with this? How have you coped? It’s quite discouraging and definitely doesn’t help the already reduced appetite. Thanks ! 

Hello! This week is Telehealth Awareness Week, and its goal is to highlight the transformative impact of telehealth on patient care. This national campaign, organized by the American Telemedicine Association, promotes awareness and understanding of telehealth services across healthcare settings and specialties. Are you currently using telehealth? Some healthcare providers utilize this service beyond the initial visit; others do not utilize this service at all.  Please share your experiences, both good and bad, with our community. 

Our lungs are a key part of our health and a primary concern for most people in this community, but healthy aging means caring for your whole body. Below is part 2 of Systems Review for Healthy Aging; I posted part 1 yesterday. This is your friendly reminder to check in with each of these areas:

❤️ HEART & CIRCULATION

• Do I know my blood pressure and cholesterol numbers?

• Am I staying physically active within my abilities?

• Have I discussed any new chest discomfort or swelling with my healthcare provider?

BONES & MUSCLES

• Am I maintaining strength and balance? Am I doing appropriate weight-bearing or resistance activities?

• Am I getting enough protein and nutrients?

• Have I had appropriate bone-health screening?

🧠 BRAIN & COGNITIVE HEALTH

• Am I staying mentally and socially engaged? Am I keeping my brain active through reading, hobbies, learning, or social activities?

• Am I getting adequate sleep?

👀👂 VISION & HEARING-  When was my last vision and hearing check?

🦷 ORAL HEALTH- Am I keeping up with regular dental care? Do I have any dental pain, dry mouth, difficulty chewing, or swallowing?

🧴 SKIN- Am I noticing new or changing spots, wounds, rashes, or areas that don't heal?

🩺 REPRODUCTIVE & URINARY HEALTH- Am I keeping up with age-appropriate screenings?

Have I discussed new urinary or reproductive symptoms with my healthcare provider?

💚 HEALTHY AGING IS MORE THAN A NUMBER- Aging well with BNTM isn't about doing everything perfectly. It's about protecting your health, maintaining independence, noticing changes early, and continuing to live a meaningful life. It is about not avoiding an issue- preventative measures are far easier to deal with than curative measures.

Your lungs are important; so are your heart, bones, brain, vision, skin, bladder health, relationships—and everything in between.

What body system will you check in on today? Please let us know if you have any suggestions for the community.

I'm wondering if anyone signed up for the conference this Saturday discussing Bronch. & NTM?  I see there is a $25. charge for online.  Is there anyway to see it without having to pay?  It sounds interesting.

HEALTHY AGING WITH BNTM: A WHOLE-BODY SYSTEMS REVIEW 🫁❤️

Hello! When you live with bronchiectasis and NTM, lung health can easily become the main focus. But healthy aging means caring for your whole body—not just your lungs.  

Think of this as a friendly reminder to check in with the different body systems that help you stay strong, independent, and active. I will start with the immune system, digestive system and the metabolic system.

🛡️ IMMUNE & INFECTION PREVENTION

• Am I up to date on recommended vaccinations?

• Am I practicing good infection-prevention habits?

• Am I consuming the right foods to boost my immune system?

🍎 DIGESTIVE & NUTRITIONAL HEALTH

• Have changes in appetite, swallowing, digestion, or bowel habits been evaluated?

* Am I maintaining a healthy weight and getting adequate protein and nutrients?

🩸 METABOLIC HEALTH

• Are my blood sugar and cholesterol being monitored when appropriate?

• Am I maintaining a healthy level of physical activity?

• Are medications and supplements still appropriate for me?

🤝 SOCIAL HEALTH- Am I staying connected with family, friends, or my community?

• Do I have support when I need it?
• Am I maintaining activities that give my life meaning?

Healthy aging isn't about having a perfect body or never having health challenges. Healthy aging is about checking in, noticing changes, staying engaged, and getting appropriate care when something doesn't feel right. For those living with BNTM, your lungs are one important piece of the puzzle—but YOU are the whole picture.

I will focus on other body systems tomorrow.  Do you have any questions on Immune, Digestive, Metabolic, or Social Health?

I was wondering if anyone has the same issue.  I live in the northeast where soon it will be winter and we are inside.  I find I am more isolated because when you go out to a restaurant or senior center church etc.  you are with people and a lot of germs and I get sick.  I am not wearing a mask I cant breath well with a mask on.  Does anyone else have the same issue.  I know some of you have small groups you belong to but my friends really dont understand my condition and think I am to concerned so I find my hobbies reading and texting but I miss human contact.  I live alone and my children are away

Hello! This week is National Assisted Living Week.  I want to begin by writing a little about the history of Assisted Living Facilities. When we hear assisted living, we may picture a nursing home. But that isn't necessarily what assisted living is. The concept was developed to provide support in a home-like setting while helping people maintain independence, dignity, choice, and quality of life.

Assisted living, as we know it today, developed largely in response to the limitations of the traditional nursing-home model. Beginning in the 1980s, a new philosophy of care began to emerge. Advocates promoted more individualized services and greater independence as alternatives to traditional nursing facilities.

During the 1980s and 1990s, assisted living expanded rapidly, and a variety of models began to emerge. By 1998, there were an estimated 11,459 assisted-living facilities in the United States. Today, there are approximately 39,000 assisted-living and residential-care facilities, serving approximately 1.2 million residents.

Do you or a loved one live in an assisted living facility? Are you a caregiver for someone who does? If so, please consider sharing the resources below with your assisted living healthcare team. These resources can help staff better understand bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease and the unique needs of individuals living with these conditions. 💙 Knowledge leads to better understanding, better communication, and better care. Please share these resources with the healthcare professionals who support you or your loved one.

All About Bronchiectasis Booklet https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/25

Do You Know About NTM Lung Disease (Part1)https://social.bronchandntm.org/resources/detail/8

Please let us know if you have any questions.

💙 Celebrating Grandparents in Our BNTM Community 💙

Wishing all grandparents, soon-to-be grandparents, and those acting in the role of a grandparent a wonderful day! :)

Grandparents have a special way of making life feel a little warmer, a little wiser, and a whole lot more meaningful. For those living with BNTM, being a grandparent may sometimes feel different. You may need to pace yourself, plan around your respiratory treatments, conserve your energy, or find creative ways to stay connected with the people you desire to be with.

And for grandparents supporting a loved one with BNTM, your encouragement, patience, and understanding can mean more than you will ever know. Whether you're sharing a hug, watching from the sidelines, making a phone call, sending a text, or simply being there—your ongoing presence truly matters. Ongoing support means so much at every stage in our lives.

Today, we celebrate the grandparents in our BNTM community and all the love they give and receive. Happy Grandparents Day! 💙 Please share any special plans you have for this special day- we would love to hear from you! 

September 11 — We Remember. We Grieve. There are some days when words simply aren’t enough. September 11 is one of those days.

We remember the lives taken, the families forever changed, the first responders who ran toward danger, and everyone who has carried the weight of that day for 25 years.  Reaching out to those who have been dealing with respiratory issues since 911: it has been a long and challenging journey, but you are not alone.

Grief doesn’t always belong to one particular day. For those of us living with bronchiectasis, NTM, or other respiratory illnesses, we understand that grief can take many forms. We can grieve the person we were before our diagnosis. We can grieve quietly—even while smiling, laughing, and telling everyone we’re “doing okay.” And sometimes, the greatest act of courage isn’t fighting harder; it is the strength to get support and to keep moving forward.  

And for everyone in our BNTM family who is carrying grief today—whether from 9/11, from chronic illness, or from a loss that only you understand—please be gentle with yourself.

You don’t have to hide your grief.
You don’t have to apologize for it.
And you don’t have to walk through it alone.

🕊️ We remember those we’ve lost. We honor those who continue to fight. Please check in with us regularly to let us know how we can assist you.

❤️ Today and always, we remember.

Happy Labor Day! Today we recognize and celebrate the contributions of workers in every field of work. 
Lung health and labor are deeply connected. Exposure to smoke, dust, fumes, and other pollutants on the job can increase the likelihood of developing bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease, and other chronic lung conditions.  In honor of Labor Day, help us spread the word about the importance of occupational protections and safety equipment so we can build a healthier future for all workers. Enjoy your day! 

🍂💙 HELLO! September has arrived… and with it comes a new season, cooler mornings, changing weather, beautiful fall days for us to enjoy. We may have days when our lungs make plans for us. We may have treatments, airway clearance, appointments, medications, and maybe “new symptoms” to think about. But we also have sunny days to enjoy, people to love, places to go, laughter to share, and moments to treasure.

So, as we enter September: 🍁 💧 Keep your airway-clearance routine going. Even when life gets busy, consistency matters. 🫁 Listen to your lungs. You know your “normal” better than anyone. If something changes, don’t ignore it. And perhaps the most important reminder of all: Don’t let Bronchiectasis or NTM take September away from you.

Take the precautions you need. Make the adjustments you need. Rest when you need to.  Ask for help when you need it. 💙Here’s to crisp mornings, beautiful September sunsets, and finding those little moments that make us smile.

Throughout the month, our educational focus will be on Infection Control Basics, Healthy Aging, Fall allergies, Telehealth, Oxygen Awareness Day, and our new Bronchiectasis and NTM App. Please let us know if you have any specific questions. 

Hi everyone,  so happy to have found this group. Thank you so much for the warm welcome.  I have recently completed my 18 month  antibiotics  treatment course. I'm looking to boost my immune system with a daily multivitamin. I was wondering if I should avoid a brand with iron as I remember hearing the ntm bacteria use it to replicate?  Thanks again and I wish everyone the best. 

We're building a new Medicare information website and want it to answer the questions that matter most to our community. What Medicare-related questions have you had about coverage, costs, enrollment, prescriptions, providers, benefits, or anything else?

Post your question below. Your questions may help shape our new FAQ section!

World NTM Day, celebrated last Tuesday, 8/4/2026 certainly assisted to increase awareness of NTM worldwide. We can continue to take our part of increasing awareness of NTM by sharing educational resources with others. Below is a link on What is NTM, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Management of NTM and Preventative Measures. https://www.bronchandntm.org/For-Patients/Learn-More/NTM-Infections-and-Co-existing-Conditions/NTM-Lung-Infections
Please let us know if you have any questions. Thank you in advance for assisting us in increasing awareness; the greater the awareness, the greater chances of more research and new drug development. 😍

If you remember Steve Wilson's presentation on Coffee Break, back a while ago, it was a great one. The subject was humor, and the presentation stuck in my mind that day, that week, and even now I remember how delightful it was. It brightened my day and was truly uplifting, and made me remember something I read in my mom's Reader's Digest (she always had a subscription).....Laughter is the best medicine.

It would be great to have another talk by him.

We will be kicking off August with the World NTM Day on Tuesday, August 4th.  
Throughout the month, we will focus on some of the available NTM management tools. We will also be celebrating National Immunization Month and National Advocacy Day. Please join in on the conversations. Let us know if you have any specific questions

Happy International Self-Care Day! Self-care is an essential part of lung health. Practicing self-care means prioritizing one’s physical, mental, and emotional health and wellness. Many people put the needs of others first. We must work on being similar to the flight attendants who instruct us to put on our oxygen masks first, then assist others. We cannot fully be there for others if we are not practicing our own self care. Can you share a self care practice that works for you? 

My mom is care giver for her sister who has bronchiactesis, long standing, with bleeding from lungs. Now my mom has some symptoms of bleeding from lungs, etc, and doctor has diagnosed her with the disease. Is it possible that bronchiactesis is communicable, and can be passed to another individual?

💙 As a part of Therapeutic Recreation Week, it is recommended to get involved in your local community.  Living with bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease can sometimes feel isolating, but connecting with your community can help build friendships, purpose, and support.  Do make time for connection- other people will learn to understand you over time, and your need to cancel or postpone an event as needed.

✨ Ways to get involved in your local area:

✅ Volunteer with a local nonprofit or community organization

✅ Attend library events, workshops, or book clubs

✅ Participate in community recreation or wellness programs

✅ Visit local parks, community centers, or senior centers

✅ Connect with faith-based or civic organizations

✅ Attend health fairs and community education events

Remember, involvement doesn't have to be big to be meaningful. Whether it's attending a monthly meeting or volunteering for an hour, small connections can make a big difference. Community reminds us that we are stronger together. Every connection is an opportunity to learn, grow, and support one another.  Do you want to share your experience with a community group in your area?

Just joined this group. I was diagnosed with BE a couple of years ago during a hospital stay for pneumonia. That year, I had about 4 bouts of pneumonia which I think contributed to my diagnosis. Prior to that I had coughing when i changed positions in bed or when I had a cold.  I was having lots of coughing and throat clearing at the time of my pneumonias. I think I have silent reflux, which makes it difficult to manage my BE. I’m starting to watch my diet a little more, taking reflux gourmet at night when I need it, and doing hypertonic 3% nebs twice a day. Any suggestions how to manage both issues? I’m 70, 4 grandkids and am pretty active. Thanks.