Respiratory Care Week

Breathing Strong, Living Strong: Celebrating Respiratory Care Week 2025

Each year, during the last full week of October, healthcare professionals and communities across the country come together to celebrate Respiratory Care Week, a time dedicated to honoring the vital work of respiratory therapists and raising awareness about the importance of lung health. In 2025, Respiratory Care Week is observed from October 19 to October 25, with the inspiring theme: “Breathing Strong, Living Strong!” (Drlogy)

This year’s celebration is more than just a recognition of a profession, it’s a powerful reminder of how essential every breath is and how respiratory therapists help millions breathe easier every day.

Why Respiratory Care Matters

Breathing is something most of us do without thinking. But for those living with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, or recovering from COVID-19, every breath can be a struggle. Respiratory therapists (RTs) are the unsung heroes who step in during these critical moments, providing life-saving care in hospitals, clinics, and even at home.

Their work spans a wide range of responsibilities, from managing ventilators in intensive care units to educating patients on breathing techniques and administering pulmonary rehabilitation. RTs are also instrumental in emergency situations, neonatal care, and long-term disease management. Their expertise ensures that patients not only survive but thrive.

The 2025 Theme: “Breathing Strong, Living Strong!”

This year’s theme, “Breathing Strong, Living Strong!”, captures the essence of respiratory care. It emphasizes the connection between strong respiratory health and overall well-being. Another message being promoted is “Because Every Breath Matters,” which underscores the importance of lung health in daily life and the role of respiratory therapists in safeguarding it.

These themes serve as a rallying cry for both healthcare professionals and the public to prioritize lung health, support respiratory care initiatives, and recognize the dedication of RTs.

How Communities Are Celebrating

Across the country, hospitals, schools, and healthcare organizations are hosting events to mark Respiratory Care Week. The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) has released a comprehensive planning toolkit that includes promotional materials, sample press releases, social media graphics, and ideas for recognition activities.

Here are some popular ways communities are celebrating:

• Recognition Ceremonies: Honoring RTs with awards, certificates and appreciation events

• Educational Campaigns: Hosting seminars and webinars on lung health, smoking cessation and air quality

• Community Outreach: Offering free lung screenings, distributing educational materials and engaging with local schools

• Social Media Spotlights: Sharing stories of RTs and their impact using hashtags like

  #RCWeek25

• Student Engagement: Encouraging respiratory therapy students to participate in awareness campaigns and learn from seasoned professionals

These activities not only celebrate the profession but also educate the public about the importance of respiratory health and the many ways to protect it.

A Call to Action for Lung Health

Respiratory Care Week is not just about appreciation, it’s also a call to action. Lung diseases remain among the leading causes of death worldwide and many are preventable with early detection and healthy habits. This week encourages everyone to:

• Quit smoking or help others do so

• Monitor air quality and reduce exposure to pollutants

• Get vaccinated against respiratory infections like flu and pneumonia

• Practice breathing exercises and stay physically active

• Support clean air initiatives in your community

By taking these steps, individuals can contribute to a healthier future and reduce the burden of respiratory illnesses.

Honoring the Unsung Heroes

Respiratory therapists often work behind the scenes but their impact is profound. Whether it’s helping a premature baby take their first breath or guiding an elderly patient through pulmonary rehab, RTs bring compassion, skill and resilience to every patient interaction.

As LaTonya Woods-Smith, Respiratory Therapy Coordinator at Regional Medical Center, puts it, “Our goal in Respiratory Care is to treat patients with professionalism, expert knowledge and using equipment to help them get well sooner and back to their lives.” (RMCCares)

Their dedication deserves recognition, not just during Respiratory Care Week but every day.

Join the Celebration

Whether you're a healthcare provider, a patient or simply someone who values good health, Respiratory Care Week is a chance to learn, appreciate and advocate. Share a thank-you message with an RT, attend a local event or post on social media using #RCWeek25 to show your support.

Let’s celebrate the professionals who help us breathe strong and live strong.