Welcome to another episode of the Passion for Patients podcast, brought to you by Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform (GAAPP). In today’s episode, host Kristin Willard sits down with Chief Medical Officer Dr. Karen Rance to explore atopic dermatitis—commonly known as eczema or AD. They uncover why AD is one of the most prevalent and burdensome chronic skin conditions worldwide, discuss how it’s diagnosed, and break down the latest advances in treatment.

You’ll hear practical tips for managing symptoms, learn about potential barriers to accessing breakthrough therapies globally, and discover how organizations like GAAPP are working to close those gaps. Karen Rance and Kristin Willard also dive into the emotional and social impact of AD, the importance of tracking symptoms, and how patients and caregivers can find community support. Whether you’re living with eczema, caring for someone who is, or just want to understand this complex condition a bit better—this episode will offer clarity, hope, and actionable advice for living well with AD.

Here are 5 key takeaways from this episode:

1. Atopic Dermatitis is a Chronic Condition

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects both children and adults worldwide. It is driven by an overactive immune system, making it distinct from other common rashes like contact dermatitis.

2. Diagnosis and Tracking are Essential

AD is typically diagnosed through clinical evaluation, detailed symptom history, and sometimes skin tests. Keeping a symptom journal and taking photos can be invaluable for both patients and healthcare providers to track flare-ups and manage care more effectively.

3. Treatment Advancements Bring Hope

Treatment for AD has evolved, with newer options like biologics and JAK inhibitors offering potential relief, especially for more severe cases. However, basic daily skin care, such as moisturizing and avoiding triggers, remains crucial.

4. Beyond the Skin: Mental and Social Impact

The impact of AD goes well beyond physical symptoms, often leading to issues like social isolation, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Open communication with healthcare providers about these challenges is important, and support is available.

5. Access, Advocacy, and Support Matter

Access to advanced treatments varies globally and can be limited by cost or regulations. Organizations like GAAPP are working tirelessly to provide educational resources, advocate for better access, and foster community support for those living with AD.

#EczemaAwareness #AtopicDermatitis #PatientAdvocacy #Podcast #ChronicIllness #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Passion for Patients, hosted by Tonya Winders. Today, Tonya sits down with Irantzu Muerza, the president of Asthma and Allergy Spain and a dedicated member of the Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform (GAAP) family. Muerza takes us through her deeply personal journey as both a patient living with severe asthma and chronic cough, and as a passionate patient advocate. From years of misdiagnosis and the life-changing moment of meeting a supportive lung specialist, to the founding of patient associations and advocating for greater awareness of chronic cough, Muerza shares the emotional and physical challenges she’s faced—and the transformative power of community and perseverance. Listen in as she discusses the ongoing stigma of chronic cough, her hopes for more effective treatments, and the importance of advocacy, education, and support for patients worldwide.

Here are 5 key takeaways from this episode:

1. The Power of Patient Advocacy

Irantzu Muerza shared her personal journey from being underdiagnosed for severe asthma to becoming a leading advocate for patients in Spain. Her story highlights how receiving the right diagnosis and support can empower individuals to help others facing similar challenges.

2. Chronic Cough: More Than Just a Symptom

This episode sheds light on the misconception that chronic cough is simply an asthma symptom. Irantzu Muerza discussed her struggle to get a proper diagnosis and the difference between chronic cough and symptoms of other illnesses, raising awareness about this often-overlooked condition.

3. The Mental and Social Impact of Chronic Cough

The discussion emphasized how living with chronic cough affects more than just physical health—it leads to sleep deprivation, social stigma, and mental health struggles, especially in the post-COVID era where coughing can draw uncomfortable attention.

4. Lack of Effective Treatments and Research Needs

Irantzu Muerza highlighted the current gap in effective, approved treatments for chronic cough, with most solutions being basic home remedies. The episode calls for more research and development of medications to address this debilitating issue.

5. The Importance of Patient Empowerment and Physician Education

Both Tonya Winders and Irantzu Muerza stressed the need for patients to be active in advocating for their own health, and for doctors to recognize and properly diagnose chronic cough as a disease. Education and collaboration are key to improving outcomes for those affected.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Passion for Patients! If you enjoyed hearing about Irantzu Muerza's powerful patient advocacy journey and insights on living with chronic cough, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring patient stories. Don't forget to share this episode with anyone who may benefit—and join us next time for more on the Passion for Patients podcast, hosted by Tonya Winders. Have a great day!

#PatientAdvocacy #ChronicCough #Asthma #Healthcare #PassionForPatients

Welcome to another episode of the Passion for Patients podcast, hosted by Tonya Winders, President and CEO of GAAP. In this episode, Tonya is joined by Dr. Karen Rance, GAAP’s Chief Medical Officer, to dive into the latest scientific updates on asthma care for 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the cutting-edge advances shaping asthma management, including personalized treatments, the evolving role of biologics, and the integration of smart technologies like wearables and smart inhalers. They also discuss shifting global guidelines, address the impact of environmental and regional triggers, and highlight the importance of self-management, symptom tracking, and equitable access to care. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides practical tips and forward-looking insights to help you live well with asthma today—and tomorrow.

Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with expert advice and the latest updates you need to know!

Here are the top 3 takeaways for anyone in healthcare, advocacy, or living with asthma:

🔹 Personalized & Precise Treatments:We’re moving beyond “one size fits all.” New guidelines are focused on personalized care—identifying treatable traits (like allergies, obesity, and environmental triggers) and matching treatments accordingly. Understanding your personal asthma triggers and working closely with your healthcare team is more important than ever.

🔹 Tech-Enabled Self-Management:From smart inhalers and wearable technology to journaling symptoms, there’s a major push toward empowering patients through technology and self-awareness. Smart (Single Maintenance and Reliever Therapy) approaches are gaining traction for better adherence and outcomes.

🔹 Equity & Access Matter:Access to essential medicines like inhaled corticosteroids and advanced biologics remains a challenge in many regions. Organizations like GAAP are deeply invested in ensuring equitable access to treatments worldwide—because everyone deserves the chance to live well with asthma.

Let’s keep advocating for innovation, access, and empowerment in respiratory health!If you’re interested in the full conversation, catch the Passion for Patients podcast and stay tuned for more scientific updates.

.#AsthmaCare #PatientEmpowerment #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients #RespiratoryHealth#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients

Welcome back to the Passion for Patients podcast! In this exciting episode, host Tonya Winders is joined by Kristen, GAAP's VP of Education, to dive into the world of artificial—or as Tonya prefers, "augmented"—intelligence and its game-changing impact on the work they do at the Global Allergy & Airways Patient Platform (GAAP). Together, they unpack the latest AI tools revolutionizing each of GAAP’s four pillars: awareness, education, advocacy, and research. From Canva's Magic Design to Otter's meeting notes and innovative chatbots providing trustworthy, curated answers, Tonya and Kristen share real-life examples and practical tips for making these technologies work for you. Whether you’re a seasoned AI user or just starting to explore, this episode is packed with insights to help you work more efficiently, stay informed, and make a bigger impact—while never losing that all-important human touch. Tune in to discover how to harness the power of AI in your daily workflow as a patient advocate!

Here are the 3-5 key takeaways from this episode;

1. AI Tools Are Revolutionizing Nonprofit Efficiency Across Pillars

The hosts discuss how artificial intelligence—what they prefer to call "augmented intelligence"—is streamlining work in GAP's four key pillars: awareness, education, advocacy, and research. Each area benefits from different AI-powered platforms and tools, such as Canva's Magic Design, project management apps with AI features, chatbots like the asthma bot, and curated research tools.

2. Practical AI Solutions Are Now More Accessible Than Ever

Tools like Canva, Monday.com, Gemini, and Otter.AI have become more intuitive and affordable—or even free at the introductory level—making it much easier for teams and individuals to adopt them for project management, design, travel planning, meeting notes, and more.

3. Quality and Credibility Remain Essential in AI Usage

Tonya and Kristen underscore the importance of not blindly trusting AI output. They recommend using AI for first drafts, always editing and fact-checking before distributing content, and ensuring information is evidence-based and at the proper health literacy level, using platforms like Grammarly and readability tools.

4. AI Is a Powerful Tool—Not a Replacement for Human Heart

The episode encourages listeners to see AI as an assistant to elevate their work, not as something that will replace the passion, care, and expertise that humans bring—especially vital in-patient advocacy and nonprofit initiatives.

5. Stay Curious and Keep Learning

Finally, the hosts stress the importance of staying informed about new AI developments, subscribing to updates and newsletters, and being open to trying new tools as they rapidly iterate and improve.

Thanks so much for joining us for this episode of the Passion for Patients podcast! We hope you picked up some helpful tips and discovered a few new AI tools to make your work as patient advocates even more effective. Remember, while technology can improve efficiency, it’ll never replace the heart and passion you bring to the job. Stay curious, keep learning, and above all—stay passionate! Until next time.

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients

Welcome to Passion for Patients! In this episode, host Tonya Winders is joined by Kristen Willard, Vice President of Education at Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform (GAAPP), to unveil two exciting new initiatives coming in 2025. Tune in as they discuss the launch of the members-only Knowledge Hub, a dedicated space for organizations to connect, collaborate, and easily access valuable resources. Plus, discover the Understanding Your Medications Hub—an accessible public platform designed to empower patients, families, and healthcare providers with up-to-date information and practical tools for managing a wide range of conditions. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how GAAPP is strengthening its community and supporting better patient outcomes!

Here are three key takeaways every healthcare leader should know:

1. Knowledge Hub for Members: A secure, members-only digital space is coming soon, making it easier than ever for member organizations to find, share, and amplify resources. The searchable library and community forum will enable deeper connections and collaboration across our global network.

2. Understanding Your Medications Hub: This public-facing resource will empower patients, caregivers, and providers with interactive and easy-to-understand materials about diagnosis, treatment options, medication adherence, flare recognition, and so much more—all in one accessible place.

3. Collaborative Learning & Growth: Both hubs are designed to highlight diverse resources from member organizations, foster peer-to-peer support, and continuously evolve based on user feedback. GAAPP’s commitment to collective impact and ongoing education is front and center!

If you want to learn more or take action, please visit https://gaapp.org/ and let’s make a difference together!

Thank you for being part of our growing Passion for Patients family. Stay tuned for more updates and mark your calendars for the big reveal at GAAPP Summit in September!

Thanks for listening to Passion for Patients! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and join us next time for more inspiring stories and updates from the world of patient advocacy.

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients

Welcome to this episode of the Passion for Patients podcast! Today, we're turning the tables as Kristen Willard, Vice President of Education, steps in as host to interview our usual host, Tonya Winders—President and CEO of GAAPP, the Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform.

In this dynamic conversation, Tonya and Willard dive deep into the vital advocacy work happening on a global scale, focusing on key health policy resolutions coming before the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations in 2025. Together, they break down complex topics like the fight for greater recognition and resources for lung health, skin disease, and rare diseases, exploring why these resolutions matter and what they mean for patient communities worldwide. Plus, you'll learn about practical ways listeners and member organizations can get involved and help drive meaningful change. Welcome to Passion for Patients. Stay tuned for an inspiring and actionable look behind the scenes of global health policy advocacy!

A few key takeaways every patient advocate and healthcare professional should note:

🔹 Policy as a Catalyst: For the first time, integrated resolutions for lung health, skin disease, and rare disease are poised for a vote at the World Health Assembly—opening doors for vital resources, research, and action at a global level.

🔹 Personal Involvement Matters: Your signature, your letter, and your social post can directly influence global policy. GAAPP and Global Skin have made it simple to participate—download a letter or sign a petition in under 10 minutes to show support.

🔹 Implementation is Coming: After the vote at WHO in May, all focus will shift to the United Nations General Assembly in September, where member states will be called upon to turn resolutions into real-world investments and improvements for patients worldwide. Now is the time for all of us—advocates, patients, clinicians, and organizations—to raise our voices and drive change.

💻 Learn more and get involved:

GAAPP.org/lunghealthresolution

Global Skin resources for skin disease advocacy

Let’s make this a turning point for under-recognized diseases. Your action today can change lives for generations to come!

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients #GlobalHealth #PatientAdvocacy #LungHealth #SkinDisease #RareDisease #WHA

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Passion for Patients podcast, hosted by Tonya Winders, President and CEO of Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform (GAAPP). In this episode, Tonya sits down with Vildana Moykitsch, leader of the Eastern European Alliance (EEA), to discuss the dynamic work being done to empower patient advocates across Eastern Europe. Together, they explore the origins of the EEA, the importance of building effective regional alliances, and the unique challenges facing patients in different healthcare systems.

Vildana shares her insights on collaboration, transparency, and the shared goals that unite advocates in their mission to improve patient outcomes. Plus, get a sneak peek at the EEA’s priorities for 2025—including groundbreaking efforts in mental health data collection and capacity building for member organizations. Whether you’re a patient, advocate, or healthcare professional, this episode is packed with valuable perspectives and actionable ideas for driving meaningful change. Tune in and discover how the power of collaboration can help people everywhere live—and breathe—better.

Welcome to Passion for Patients.

Here are the 3 takeaways:

- Shared Goals Drive Impact: Building an effective regional alliance starts with uniting around common goals and challenges, fostering open communication, and creating true collaboration—not just projects on paper.

- Collective Voices Bring Change: The EEA allows us to speak as one strong, credible entity to stakeholders, policymakers, and industry partners. Together, we can address issues like access to treatment and capacity building in ways that benefit the entire region.

- Data is Power: Our first project centers on collecting much-needed mental health data for patients with atopic conditions in Eastern Europe. Having real, local data not only empowers our advocacy but opens doors for meaningful change and recognition.

I’m proud of the progress we’re making in the EEA and look forward to the impactful projects we have planned for 2025. If you’re in Eastern Europe and passionate about patient advocacy—especially in the area of mental health—get in touch or check out the latest podcast episode for more information!

Let’s keep working together to ensure everyone can live better and breathe better. Stay passionate, and we’ll see you in the next episode!

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #PassionForPatients

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Tonya Winders Podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of nonprofit financial management with the esteemed Giovana Bier. As a nonprofit accounting expert, Giovana brings a wealth of knowledge in fiscal clarity and resource allocation, pivotal for any nonprofit striving for transparency and accountability.

In this episode, Giovanna shares her profound insights on distinguishing between restricted and unrestricted funds, the strategic use of accounting tools, and maintaining compliance with annual filing requirements. Join us as we explore best practices in nonprofit budgeting and learn how to effectively build trust with donors and stakeholders, ultimately driving sustainable growth.

Here are three key takeaways:

- Transparency and Trust: Giovanna underscores the importance of transparency in financial management to build confidence with donors and stakeholders. Ensuring your financial statements are clear and accessible is crucial for maintaining trust.

- Strategic Resource Allocation: Learn about the strategic distinction between restricted and unrestricted funds. Giovanna emphasizes the need to allocate resources wisely and recommends budgeting a portion of unrestricted funds for core operational work to sustain your organization's mission.

- Embracing Technology: Discover accessible accounting tools like QuickBooks Online through platforms like TechSoup, which offer discounts for nonprofits. Leveraging technology can make financial management tasks more efficient and allow organizations to focus on their core mission work.

Join Tonya Winders and Giovanna Beyer as they delve into these topics and more, offering practical advice for sustainable growth and transparency in nonprofit fiscal management. Don’t miss out—listen, share, and elevate your organization’s financial strategies today!

#PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareInnovation #passionforpatients

In this episode of the Passion for Patients Podcast, host Tonya Winders sits down with guest Dani Gillis, the brand manager for Executive Brand Growth, to delve into the vital role of social media in patient advocacy. Drawing from her personal experiences with her grandmother's Alzheimer’s journey, Dani speaks passionately about entering the world of patient advocacy and the importance of a heart-centered approach. As Dani and Tonya explore practical tips for healthcare nonprofits, they emphasize the value of authenticity, consistency, and engagement in building an online community. Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your social media presence, you'll find insights into choosing the right platforms, creating engaging content, and understanding your audience.

Get ready to be inspired and equipped to elevate your organization's social media strategy, all while putting patients first. Tune in to learn how to stand in the gap and make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients worldwide.

Here are the key highlights and top 5 takeaways from the video:

1. The Power of Authenticity: Dani emphasizes the importance of genuine connection and building trust through consistent and credible content. Discover how authenticity can transform your social media presence.

2. Your Social Media Rhythm: Not sure where to start? Dani shares insider tips on choosing the right platforms and maintaining consistency over sheer frequency. Whether it's Facebook, LinkedIn, or TikTok, learn how to test different platforms to find your unique audience.

3. Analytics That Drive Engagement: Dive into the world of social media analytics. Learn how to analyze ratios of views, likes, and comments to fine-tune your strategy for maximum engagement.

4. Getting Started Without Breaking the Bank: Dani reassures that you don’t need to spend big to make an impact. Whether it's using free tools or outsourcing strategically, there are paths for every budget.

5. Video Content is King: Discover why video reigns supreme and how it can be used to authentically connect with your audience and effectively deliver your message.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Passion for Patients podcast. We hope you found the discussion with Dani Gillis as insightful and inspiring as we did. Her passion for patient advocacy and expertise in social media management offer valuable tools for anyone looking to expand their organization's digital presence. Remember, you don't need to spend money—just time and consistency.

Most importantly, remember that taking that first step is key. Start small, stay authentic, and engage with your community. Until next time, keep the passion alive and continue making a difference. Stay passionate!

#Passionforpatients #GAAPP #TonyaWinders

Welcome back to another episode of the Passion For Patients Podcast with your host, Tonya Winders, President and CEO of GAAPP. Today, we're thrilled to have Stacey Lewis join us once again to share her incredible journey of living with multiple chronic conditions and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. In this episode, Stacey opens up about her long road to being diagnosed with Addison's disease, alongside allergies and asthma, and the challenges of managing multiple health conditions over 30 years.

We'll dive into her experiences with accessing healthcare, dealing with insurance hurdles, and the importance of advocating for herself when faced with a medical system that doesn't always have the answers. Stacey's story is a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and an unwavering will to live fully. Join us as we explore the realities of patient advocacy, the power of shared decision-making, and the human spirit's role in overcoming barriers to healthcare access.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of being the driver of your own healthcare journey. Don't forget to check the podcast notes for resources and share this episode with your community. Let's stay passionate together!

Key Takeaways:

- Patient Empowerment: Discover how Stacey has learned to advocate for herself, firing doctors who don’t listen and finding those who genuinely partner in her care.

- Healthcare System Navigation: Explore the complexities of insurance barriers and how financial constraints impact access to quality care.

- Living With Chronic Conditions: Gain insight into managing multiple diagnoses and medications and the role of family support in Stacey’s journey.

- The Human Spirit: Be inspired by Stacey's unwavering faith, resilience, and her pursuit to seek the best care possible despite the odds.

Stacey’s journey is a humbling reminder of the challenges faced by many in navigating healthcare. It's through sharing these stories and solutions that we can drive meaningful change and ensure the right treatment reaches the right patient with the fewest barriers.

Listen to the episode today on our website or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to spread awareness and foster a community that is passionate about improving patient care. Thank you for being with us on this journey.