Breathing is something most of us do without realizing it. Humans breathe about 22,000 times a day and while most take it for granted, a growing number develop breathing problems over time.

More than three million Canadians cope with a variety of respiratory ailments. Since many can be tied to an aging population, the number of sufferers is growing. The corresponding increase in demand for services can pose a significant challenge.

Fortunately, there is help available beyond primary health care to allow people to manage their illness and continue to enjoy life. Northern Respiratory in Thunder Bay provides a combination of therapy, services and support.

“We form a partnership with the client and family to ensure optimal care and comfort with their therapy, providing ongoing support and follow-up,” says owner/manager Steve Lavery.

After studying chemistry at Lakehead University, Steve became immersed in the home health-care field. When an ownership opportunity arose, he, along with community representative Jim Crooks, opened this business, which has province-wide support.

“Through various roles in the industry, I have become well versed in products, funding options and service,” he says.

With three employees – a registered nurse (Rachelle Wood) and two registered respiratory therapists (Chelsea Campbell and Frank Stella) – Lavery’s business offers innovative products for therapy and personal care in a fast-growing field.

Northern Respiratory offers full home oxygen setups, which include portable oxygen concentrators that can last up to eight hours. They also carry a variety of airway pressure machines — CPAP, APAP and BiPAP — and masks, tubing and filters as well as cleaning units and comfort accessories.

As part of the Northern/InspiAir group, Northern Respiratory enjoys the flexibility of a small business with the buying power and product innovation of a larger business structure.

“Our main priorities are comfort and acclimation to oxygen or CPAP therapy in a patient-centred care model involving communication at all levels, whether in a clinical environment, in-store or in clients’ own homes.” Steve says.

Helping people to accomplish their goals, no matter how big or small, while managing respiratory illness is what inspires him and his staff.

“It is the little things that matter the most,” Steve says. “It’s listening, understanding and connecting.”