Respiratory Care Week is held each year to highlight the important role respiratory therapists play in healthcare. These professionals provide essential support for patients with chronic lung conditions and many others who rely on their expertise to breathe more comfortably.
eeeThe week is not only about raising awareness but also about recognizing the steady, everyday contributions of respiratory therapists. Though their work is often carried out quietly, it is central to improving patient health and quality of life.
In this article, we’ll look at the purpose of Respiratory Care Week, why it matters, and how you can take part in showing appreciation for this vital profession.
What is Respiratory Care Week?
Respiratory Care Week is an annual observance that recognizes the vital contributions of respiratory therapists and highlights the importance of respiratory health. It is typically held during the last full week of October and serves as both an educational and appreciation campaign.
The event was established to raise awareness about the essential role respiratory therapists play in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with breathing difficulties. These healthcare professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care, providing critical support to patients with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses.
Respiratory Care Week is also an opportunity to educate the public about lung health. Many hospitals and professional organizations use this time to share information on topics such as smoking cessation, the impact of air quality, preventive screenings, and strategies for managing chronic lung conditions.
Equally important, it is a chance to celebrate and acknowledge respiratory therapists for their skill, dedication, and often behind-the-scenes work. By shining a spotlight on their role, Respiratory Care Week encourages greater understanding of the profession and inspires future generations to consider careers in respiratory care.
Note: Respiratory Care Week is both a time of appreciation and a call to action for healthier lungs and stronger respiratory care awareness.
When is Respiratory Care Week 2025?
Respiratory Care Week will be celebrated from October 19 to October 25, 2025. This annual event takes place during the last full week of October and is dedicated to recognizing the essential work of respiratory therapists while raising awareness about lung health. Throughout the week, hospitals, schools, and professional organizations often host activities, educational events, and community outreach programs.
It’s a time to celebrate the dedication of respiratory care professionals, highlight their critical role in patient health, and encourage the public to learn more about maintaining healthy lungs and preventing respiratory disease.
History of Respiratory Care Week
Respiratory Care Week was first established in November 1982, when President Ronald Reagan officially proclaimed the third week of October as National Respiratory Care Week. The goal was to recognize the essential contributions of respiratory therapists and to bring greater public attention to the importance of lung health.
Since that time, the event has become a yearly tradition supported by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), the leading professional organization for respiratory therapists in the United States. The AARC has been instrumental in shaping the observance, encouraging healthcare institutions, schools, and communities to take part in activities that both educate the public and celebrate respiratory care professionals.
Beyond sponsoring the event, the AARC has consistently used Respiratory Care Week as an opportunity to highlight critical issues related to respiratory health, from smoking cessation and asthma management to the impact of chronic diseases like COPD. The week serves as a reminder not only of the challenges patients face but also of the dedication and expertise that respiratory therapists bring to their care.
Note: What began as a presidential proclamation has grown into an annual movement, honoring a profession that continues to make a profound difference in the lives of countless patients.
Why is Respiratory Care Week Important?
Respiratory Care Week is important because it shines a light on the often-overlooked role of respiratory therapists in healthcare. These professionals are essential in treating and supporting patients with breathing difficulties, whether from chronic conditions like COPD and asthma, acute illnesses such as pneumonia, or critical emergencies requiring mechanical ventilation. Despite their central role, respiratory therapists frequently work behind the scenes, and this week offers a chance to recognize their contributions and dedication.
The observance also raises public awareness about the importance of lung health. Educational activities during the week encourage individuals to learn more about preventive care, smoking cessation, air quality, and strategies for managing respiratory diseases.
By focusing attention on both patient care and professional recognition, Respiratory Care Week promotes greater appreciation for the field while inspiring new interest in respiratory therapy as a career. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that healthy lungs are vital to overall well-being.
What is Lung Health Day?
Lung Health Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of healthy lungs and preventing respiratory disease. It is typically recognized during Respiratory Care Week, serving as a focused day to educate the public on maintaining good respiratory health. The event emphasizes preventive measures such as avoiding smoking, reducing exposure to air pollution, staying physically active, and receiving appropriate vaccinations to protect against respiratory infections.
Healthcare organizations, schools, and professional groups often mark Lung Health Day with community events, screenings, and educational programs designed to encourage healthier habits and provide resources for those already living with lung disease.
By highlighting both prevention and early detection, Lung Health Day reinforces the message that strong lung health is essential for overall well-being. It also provides an opportunity to honor respiratory therapists and healthcare providers who dedicate their work to helping patients breathe easier every day.
How to Celebrate Respiratory Care Week
Respiratory Care Week is more than just an awareness campaign—it’s a celebration of a profession that makes a meaningful impact on countless lives. It’s a time for respiratory therapists to feel recognized, for colleagues to show appreciation, and for communities to learn more about the importance of lung health.
There are many ways you can take part in this special week, whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or member of the public.
Share a Meal
Many hospitals, clinics, and schools mark the week by offering free meals or snacks to respiratory therapists. This small gesture is a simple but powerful way for nurses, physicians, and administrators to say “thank you” to their respiratory care colleagues. Just remember to enjoy without overindulging—it’s about appreciation, not excess.
Attend or Host an Event
Educational events such as seminars, workshops, or informational sessions are common during Respiratory Care Week. These provide opportunities to learn about new developments in the field, strengthen professional connections, and exchange ideas. Attending such events can be both inspiring and practical, helping professionals grow while celebrating the value of their work.
Organize a Fundraiser
Fundraisers are another meaningful way to celebrate. Charity runs, bake sales, or community drives can help raise money for respiratory health initiatives, research, or local department needs. If your workplace hasn’t started this tradition, you might be the one to lead the way.
Plan Interactive Activities
Activities that involve the wider community can help spread awareness. Examples include lung health screenings, breathing exercise sessions, or setting up informational booths about common respiratory conditions. Some organizations host “lung walks” to highlight the importance of healthy lungs, while others organize “sputum bowl” trivia contests to test knowledge in a fun, engaging way.
Express Gratitude
Above all, Respiratory Care Week is about showing appreciation. Taking a few moments to thank a colleague, mentor, or friend in the field can make a lasting impact. Handwritten notes, small tokens of gratitude, or even a heartfelt conversation can help highlight the value of respiratory therapists. It’s also a great time for professionals to reflect on their own career, recognizing the privilege of helping others breathe easier.
How to Raise Awareness for Respiratory Care Week
Raising awareness during Respiratory Care Week is a meaningful way to highlight the essential role respiratory therapists play in healthcare and to promote the importance of lung health. A thoughtful mix of education, outreach, and celebration can help reach both professionals and the public.
- Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter) to share facts, patient stories, and updates. Hashtags such as #RespiratoryCareWeek or #LungHealth can expand your reach and spark conversation.
- Host Educational Sessions: Offer webinars or in-person seminars where experts discuss new treatments, advances in technology, and the everyday impact of respiratory therapy. These sessions are excellent for both professional development and public education.
- Plan Community Events: Organize health screenings, breathing exercise demonstrations, or interactive workshops. These activities encourage healthier habits and raise awareness of common respiratory conditions.
- Engage the Media: Press releases, local news features, or radio interviews can spread awareness beyond healthcare settings. Highlight local respiratory therapists, patient success stories, or community initiatives to capture interest.
- Distribute Educational Materials: Brochures, posters, and flyers in clinics, schools, and community centers can provide practical tips for lung health and raise visibility for the profession.
- Involve Schools and Students: Partner with schools to host classroom talks or career fairs, sparking early interest in respiratory therapy as a profession while teaching the importance of healthy lungs.
- Collaborate with Influencers: Healthcare influencers, bloggers, or patient advocates can amplify the message by sharing personal experiences or insights with a wider audience.
- Share Stories: Encouraging therapists and patients to share real-life experiences helps humanize the profession and build stronger community connections.
- Organize Fundraisers: Charity runs, bake sales, or donation drives not only raise awareness but also provide support for research or patient care initiatives.
- Celebrate in the Workplace: Within hospitals and clinics, decorate spaces, host appreciation events, or hold recognition ceremonies. These activities foster pride among staff and raise awareness among patients.
- Advocate for the Profession: Reach out to policymakers and local leaders to discuss the importance of respiratory care. Advocacy can help secure more resources and recognition for the field.
- Collaborate with Other Organizations: Partnerships with non-profits, health foundations, or community groups can amplify outreach efforts and bring new audiences into the conversation.
Note: Raising awareness during Respiratory Care Week is about education, recognition, and advocacy. By combining online outreach, community involvement, and workplace initiatives, you can ensure the message of respiratory care reaches every corner of society.
Respiratory Care Week Memes
Respiratory Care Week isn’t limited to seminars, workshops, or appreciation events—it’s also a time to celebrate the lighter side of the profession. Respiratory therapists face unique challenges and experiences every day, and humor can be one of the best ways to connect, unwind, and build camaraderie.
Memes have become a universal language online, turning everyday moments into something instantly recognizable and shareable. For respiratory therapists, they provide a fun way to laugh at the ups and downs of the job while highlighting the dedication and resilience behind the work.
To add some humor to the celebration, here are a few of our favorite Respiratory Care Week memes that perfectly capture what it means to be part of this vital profession:
Note: Be sure to follow our Instagram (@respiratorytherapyzone) for more inspiration (and hilarious) Respiratory Care Week memes.
Respiratory Care Week Gift Ideas
One of the best ways to celebrate Respiratory Care Week is by showing appreciation through thoughtful gifts. Whether you’re a colleague, supervisor, or family member, a small gesture can go a long way in recognizing the hard work and dedication of respiratory therapists.
- Practical Gifts: Items like stethoscope cases, badge reels, compression socks, or quality pens are always useful. Personalized scrubs or custom water bottles also make functional yet meaningful tokens of appreciation.
- Wellness Gifts: Respiratory therapists often work long shifts, so gifts that promote relaxation and self-care are always welcome. Think along the lines of aromatherapy candles, massage gift cards, cozy blankets, or even coffee gift baskets for those busy mornings.
- Personalized Keepsakes: Customized mugs, engraved keychains, or plaques with inspirational quotes can serve as lasting reminders of their impact on patients’ lives.
- Group Celebrations: Consider organizing a team gift, such as catered lunches, decorated break rooms, or a framed group photo to commemorate the week.
Note: The most important thing is the thought behind the gesture. A simple, heartfelt gift can remind respiratory therapists just how valued they are during this special week.
FAQs About Respiratory Care Week
Who Invented Respiratory Care Week?
Respiratory Care Week was officially established in 1982, when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation designating the third week of October as National Respiratory Care Week. While the proclamation made it official, the idea came from within the respiratory care community itself.
Organizations such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) and dedicated professionals worked together to push for a week that would honor the contributions of respiratory therapists and bring greater attention to lung health.
How Did Respiratory Therapy Start?
The field of respiratory therapy has roots in the early 20th century, when oxygen therapy first began to be used in medical practice. Its importance grew rapidly during World War II and the polio epidemic of the 1950s, when specialists were needed to operate iron lungs and other ventilatory devices.
These experiences highlighted the need for trained professionals, leading to the development of respiratory therapy as a recognized profession, complete with formal education, certifications, and professional organizations.
How Do You Celebrate Respiratory Care Week?
Respiratory Care Week is marked by a variety of activities that combine celebration, education, and outreach. Hospitals and clinics may host seminars, workshops, luncheons, or award ceremonies to recognize respiratory therapists.
At the same time, professionals often engage with the public through lung health screenings, awareness campaigns, or community fundraisers, reinforcing the importance of respiratory health.
What is the Purpose of Respiratory Care Week?
The primary purpose of the week is to recognize and celebrate respiratory therapists for their dedication and expertise. It also serves as a platform to educate the public about lung health, promote preventive measures, and highlight the critical role that respiratory care plays in overall well-being.
When Was Respiratory Care Week Established?
Respiratory Care Week was officially established in 1982, with President Reagan’s proclamation designating the third week of October for its observance.
What are the Best Things to Do for Respiratory Care Week?
The most meaningful activities are those that combine education, appreciation, and community engagement. Examples include:
- Offering lung health screenings and informational booths
- Hosting seminars or workshops on respiratory topics
- Holding luncheons or award ceremonies for respiratory staff
- Running fundraising events such as charity walks or bake sales
- Partnering with schools or community groups to share information on lung health
What are the Best Hashtags to Use for Respiratory Care Week?
Social media is a powerful way to spread awareness. Popular hashtags include:
- #RespiratoryCareWeek
- #RCWeek
- #LungHealth
- #BreatheEasy
- #RespiratoryCare
- #RespiratoryTherapy
- #RespiratoryTherapist
Note: Sharing posts, stories, and even group selfies with coworkers or classmates can help amplify the celebration. Pairing your content with these hashtags ensures your message reaches a wider audience.
Final Thoughts
Respiratory Care Week is more than a date on the calendar. It serves as a reminder of the critical role respiratory therapists play in healthcare and the importance of maintaining healthy lungs. This observance highlights both the dedication of professionals and the need to educate the public on prevention and wellness.
Whether you participate by attending an event, sharing a story, supporting a fundraiser, or simply thanking a respiratory therapist, your efforts help bring greater awareness and appreciation to this vital field. As Respiratory Care Week comes and goes each year, let’s continue supporting lung health and recognizing the professionals who make better breathing possible.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Respiratory Care Week – AARC. (n.d.). AARC. Retrieved October 19, 2025, from aarc.org.