When was the last time you thanked a respiratory therapist? This week being Respiratory Care Week (Oct. 23 to 29) makes an ideal time to send a note of gratitude. The American Association for Respiratory Care makes it easy to choose a card, type in an email address and send some quick appreciation.

This is also the week to turn into Health Link on Air radio at 9 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, on Newsradio 570 106.9 WSYR. Joseph Sorbello, associate professor of respiratory therapy in the College of Health Professions, speaks about respiratory care week in general and COPD in particular.

COPD stands for Chronic, Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, a progressive disease in which people struggle to breathe. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD, but long-term exposure to chemical fumes, air pollution or dust can also contribute.

Listen to Sorbello's Health Link interview.

Send a card to a respiratory therapist.