A Tasmanian father whose wife died of an asthma attack has made a heartfelt appeal to others not to
lose a loved one this Christmas, launching a letter telling his wife’s story and encouraging people to
get their asthma under control.
Bruce Wiggins, who wrote a voluntary letter for the Asthma Foundation of Tasmania’s Christmas
Appeal, said just over a year ago asthma changed his and his family’s lives.
“On a Wednesday morning I saw my wife Sally off at the Hobart Airport to visit her daughter Emma in
New South Wales,” Mr Wiggins said.
“That night she called and mentioned she was having trouble with her asthma. Little did I know that
would be the last time I would ever have a conversation with my wife.
“After buying an asthma inhaler from the chemist, Sally drove to her parent’s home nearby with
Emma. When she got there her father went to give her a hug, but she said she couldn’t because she
was having difficulty breathing.
“Sally’s mother wanted to take her straight to hospital, but Sally declined reassuring them she’d be
alright in a minute.
“But 10 minutes later Sally’s mother insisted she go to hospital and despite getting there as quickly as
possible, when they arrived Sally wasn’t breathing and her heart had stopped.”
Mr Wiggins said since Sally’s death he had spent quite some time talking with the people at the
Asthma Foundation.
“According to the Foundation, most people with asthma can get it under control with the right advice
and appropriate medication,” he said.
“The Foundation offers help to people free of charge through their 1800 advice line and face-to-face
consultations.
“On behalf of my family I have asked people to make a donation this Christmas to ensure that these
vital services can continue to save lives.
“Just as importantly, funds will also help the Foundation spread important asthma messages to people
like me and Sally.”
Asthma is responsible for thousands of emergency presentations every year in Tasmania and is the
main reason why Tasmanian children present at emergency departments or are hospitalised.
Asthma Foundation of Tasmania CEO Cathy Beswick said despite the fact that there were around
62,000 Tasmanians living with asthma, the Foundation only spoke to around 2,000 asthmatics each
year.
“We estimate more than 13,500 asthmatics in Tasmania are not in adequate control of their asthma,
as evidenced by statewide pharmacy data,” Ms Beswick said.
“While there is no cure for asthma it can be controlled and the impact it has on the lives of those who
have it can be significantly reduced, which many people don’t seem to realise.
“Sadly, people who think their asthma is okay can get into a lot of trouble because they often don’t
have their medication in an emergency.”
The Asthma Foundation provides free help and advice to Tasmanians living with asthma. To start
feeling better, call the Foundation on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) or visit: www.asthmatas.org.au.
Asthma Foundation
