Roswell Mom Must Monitor Air Quality for Toddler

For some of us, the air quality index is barely on our radar, while others make more of an effort to limit outdoor activity when air quality is predicted to be poor. But Roswell resident Lettie Hernandez Ongie monitors it daily. She has too. 

Her 21-months-old daughter, Livie, suffers from Reactive Airway Disease (RAD), which is worsened by poor air quality.

"We hope that as she gets older, this is something that will improve, but often, young people with RAD are later diagnosed as asthmatic," Ongie told Roswell Patch.

Living with RAD, Livie is susceptible to wheezing and coughing fits. The condition is worsened when air quality is poor. According to Ongie, Livie must get oral breathing treatments twice daily and see a pediatric pulmonologist regularly.

Her condition provides extra motivation for Ongie in her job as an Employer Program Manager for The Clean Air Campaign.

"Through working at The Clean Air Campaign, I have emphasized and encouraged the use of clean commute options as a means of reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality in Metro Atlanta," Ongie said. "Knowing that my daughter falls into one of the most sensitive groups to poor air quality makes me work even harder."

According to The Clean Air Campaign, more than 600,000 in Georgia battle asthma or other air related diseases each year. Because children have much smaller airways, even slight irritations can narrow a child’s airway to a dangerous condition.

"Air Quality Awareness Week is important to me because I am able to physically see the impact and negative affect that poor quality has one someone I love," said Ongie.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that asthma contributes close to 14 million lost school days each year in the U.S.

On any day when the air quality is at orange - an unhealthy level for sensitive groups - or worse, Ongie must keep Livie inside, resulting in delayed errands, less outdoor playtime and a hold on everyday life.

But regardless whether or not someone falls into a sensitive group, poor air quality is harmful to everyone. During Air Quality Awareness Week, commuters are urged to take the time to safeguard their health as well as their loved ones by signing up to receive smog alerts.

"There are many ways that each of us can do our part to improve air quality in Metro Atlanta," Ongie said.

She shares these tips with Roswell Patch readers:

• Avoid unnecessary idling. Park your car and run into the dry cleaner or restaurant,
• Carpool when possible or take transit, bike or walk to work.

"I personally enjoy teleworking and carpooling with a friend to work, as an effort to reduce traffic and improve air quality," she said. "If you are unsure of what means might best suit your schedule or needs, that’s what [The Clean Air Campaign] is here for - to assist commuters with finding the best clean commute option and improving air quality in the process. It’s a win/win for everyone."