For many people living with Asthma is a nightmare but people can take comfort in knowing they aren't alone. 8 Million people in the UK suffer from Asthma and live a normal, happy life. Some have not let their Asthma hold them back and have gone on to make a difference in the world of sport.
David Beckham is just one celebrity living with Asthma. From the age of 8 David was told that he had the condition and through proper medical care he has went on to be one of the worlds greatest footballers of all time. He didn't let his condition hold him back and it wasn't until 2009 at a Galaxy game where he played extra time in a match, he was photographed with his inhaler. The game obviously took it's toll on him but he is just one sports star who overcame Asthma to become the best he could be.
Becks is just one of the sports people who have reached the top regardless of their asthma. If we look a little closer to his old team Manchester United we will find that Paul Scholes also suffers from Asthma.
Paul Scholes wasn't aware of his Asthma until the age of 21. He was regularly substituted due to coughing fits and bad chests in the winter. When the doctor picked up on his condition, he was treated correctly and received medication which helped him to reach the top of his game scoring over 150 goals for his beloved team. Paul said "My asthma is well controlled so it has never affected my performance again, I always warm up before a game which helps keep my Asthma under control".
Marathon runner Paula Radcliffe once said "I don't really think asthma has affected my career - if anything it's made me more determined to be successful and reach my maximum potential". Paula is one of the best marathon runners to come out of the UK, current record holder and 7 times champion. A marathon is one of the most gruelling sports known to man. Competing takes months of hard work and training. Getting in peak condition in time for the race is difficult, winning is very difficult and winning with Asthma is almost impossible. Paul a didn't let any of this stop her, if anything she became more determined to win. She has proven that with medication and techniques to control the condition you can go on to be the best in what you do.
These athletes are an inspiration to many for many different reasons. They are true sporting legends and have strived to reach the top regardless of their Asthma. With correct management and medication, you can go on to live a successful life and triumph your condition. When partaking in sport it is advisable to let people know of any conditions you have and wear a
medical ID band which will let people know if you are having an asthma attack. The medical ID bands talk for you when you are unable to and help people identify that you are suffering an attack.
