Breathing Easy

About 7 million kids in America have asthma. It's the second leading cause of missed school days. Many parents simpy don't know their kid has asthma, and if they do, they don't know how to treat it. With that in mind, Parkland Hospital, has created a team that goes into elementary and middle schools to inform parents and kids of their options. Kids with asthma miss about ten school days a year. Since the program began, that number is down to .04. Kids play games to learn about asthma and have their lungs checked before they meet with the doctor. It all takes about 90 minutes. Parkland officials say the program has also reduced the number of asthma related visits to the emergency room. The program is funded through a grant. After talking to doctors, teachers, parents and kids, it seems like money well spent. All are breathing a little easier tonight. So far, seven Dallas schools are taking part and more want to.