With support from the Health Innovation Fund, LungNSPEI is helping Islanders breathe easier one refurbished machine at a time.
For years, LungNSPEI’s Sleep Apnea Refurbishment Program has supported low-income Islanders with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by providing refurbished CPAP and BiPAP machines to those who otherwise couldn’t afford therapy.
These devices help people breathe steadily during sleep by keeping airways open. In doing so, they improve sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and lower the risk of serious health complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and depression.
The program accepts gently used devices, refurbishes them with the help of respiratory therapists, and distributes them to clients free of charge.
But in the summer of 2024, rising demand outpaced donations, forcing LungNSPEI to pause its waitlist for the first time.
That changed when they received a $50,000 grant through the Health Innovation Fund. The program surged forward, distributing 34 machines by April of this year alone, covering setup fees for dozens of clients, and bringing BiPAP access to Islanders who need more complex care.
The funding also allowed LungNSPEI to build inventory for hospital patients who require therapy before they can be safely discharged. By ensuring machines are available when needed, the program is helping reduce delays in care and easing pressure on the health care system.
With help from Canada Post, the team designed a national mail-in program, making it easy for donors to send machines from anywhere in Canada with a prepaid label. That innovation sparked cross-country generosity.
LungNSPEI also teamed up with Halifax influencer Alicia Mccarvell, whose openness about sleep apnea resonated with younger followers, especially. Her advocacy triggered new donations, including six machines from the widely known sleep therapy company, ResMed.
“Bringing more awareness, not only about the health risks but also how people can support each other by donation through this program, is definitely our focus,” said Abbey McRoberts, Communications Coordinator for LungNSPEI. “We want to help improve the health of Islanders, and these machines can do just that.”
With new partnerships, growing awareness, and strengthened community support, LungNSPEI is helping more Islanders access the sleep therapy they need. The Health Innovation Fund gave the program a boost at just the right time, expanding its reach and helping keep vital equipment accessible to those who need it most.
Head to LungNSPEI to learn more about their Sleep Apnea Refurbishment Program and visit 2024-25 Health Innovation Fund to find out more about the fund.