Free asthma classes

Bon Secours Richmond Health System's Asthma Program, Controlling Asthma in the Richmond Metropolitan Area (CARMA), is offering free "You Can Control Asthma" classes for children with asthma ages 8-11 and their caregivers, taught by registered nurses.

The "You Can Control Asthma" program was developed by Georgetown University for children as a fun way to learn about their asthma. Topics include:

• How asthma makes children sick

• How to manage asthma symptoms

• How to use spacers (holding chambers)

• How to use peak flow meters

• Asthma triggers and how to avoid them

• Asthma medications and medication delivery systems

Participants are asked to attend all three classes in the session to complete the program. Children that attend all classes will receive a free movie pass at the last class. All children will receive mattress and pillow encasings for their bed. Pizza and soft drinks, gift cards and other small items will be provided at each class. Participants will also receive an asthma book and other resources.

There are two sessions available: Apr. 2, 9 and 16 at the Chester Library, 11800 Centre St., and Apr. 14, 22 and 29 at the Bon Air Library, 9103 Rattlesnake Rd. All classes will be held from 6-8:30 p.m.

For more information and to reserve a space in class, call Laura Burns at 213-0917. For more information on CARMA, visit www.carmakids.org.