How Allergy & Asthma Network Supports Patients and Families
This is a special episode of the podcast about the work of Allergy & Asthma Network. In this episode, CEO Lynda Mitchell shares what it was like raising a child with asthma and multiple food allergies when there was very little information available. She explains how that experience led her into advocacy and nonprofit work.
Together with co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney, Lynda explains how Allergy & Asthma Network supports patients and families through four main areas: education, outreach, advocacy, and research. They also talk about the innovative Trusted Messengers program, the free virtual asthma coaching program, and a new program called PALI that helps people learn how to speak up for better health legislation and policies.
You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere, at:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.
Key takeaways about Allergy & Asthma Network’s work
- Trusted Messengers are people who are known and trusted in their community. This helps health information feel safer and easier to believe.
- The virtual asthma coaching program is free and teaches people how to manage asthma day-to-day. It does not provide medical care.
- Patient voice research focuses on patient and caregiver experiences, not medications or treatments, to improve care and education.
- Diverse clinical trials matter because people can respond differently to medicines.
- Advocacy helps change laws that affect health and safety. Patient stories help lawmakers understand real needs.
Timestamps for podcast on Allergy & Asthma Network
01:35 — Lynda Mitchell’s story
03:35 — Allergy & Asthma Network’s mission
04:50 — How Allergy & Asthma Network’s work has evolved
08:00 — Education programs
10:35 — Outreach and community work
13:10 — Patient voice research
15:30 — Why diversity in clinical trials matters
18:30 — Advocacy and policy work
20:35 — PALI: Patient Advocacy Leadership Initiative
21:25 — What is a nonprofit organization?
23:08 — How to get involved with Allergy & Asthma Network
More resources about Allergy & Asthma Network
- Sign up for the Allergy & Asthma Network’s Newsletter
- Get involved with clinical trials and research
- More about PALIand patient advocacy
- Advocacy information
- Virtual asthma coaching program (free asthma self-management education)









