What started as a routine doctor’s visit for coughing and labored breathing quickly became something serious for three-year-old Ethan Jallah. He had dangerously low oxygen levels, and doctors admitted him to the hospital for several days. During that stay, his family learned that Ethan had asthma.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in children—affecting about 1 in 10 school-aged kids in the U.S. But that doesn’t make it less dangerous. This lung disease inflames and narrows airways, making breathing hard. Many things can trigger an asthma attack, including cold viruses, pollen, cigarette smoke, exercise, or even strong emotions. Asthma can’t be cured, but it can be managed.
Getting his asthma under control
Ethan’s mom, Alicia, remembers the first few months after his diagnosis as overwhelming. They made several trips to the emergency room, each one a reminder of how unpredictable asthma can be and how frightening it is to watch your child struggle to breathe.
“But through it all, we’ve been grateful for the incredible doctors and nurses who helped us understand his condition and find the right treatment plan,” Alicia said. “With their guidance, and a lot of learning along the way, we now have his asthma under control.”
Today, Ethan is thriving—playing soccer, laughing and doing all the things a child should be able to do. “We’re deeply thankful for his medical team at McLane Children’s and for every breath of peace that comes with knowing he’s healthy and safe,” Alicia said.
