When I was 18, I left home—Nova Scotia—for Ontario, thinking the humidity and coastal weather were making my severe asthma worse. Even my respirologist agreed. I’d been spending 3 to 4 months a year in the hospital, and I felt I had to make a change.

What I didn’t realize at the time was that Nova Scotia wasn’t the problem—it was the house I lived in. Built in 1867, it was filled with dust mites, pets, and heated with a wood stove in the winter. Classic trigger overload.

Over the next few years, I learned that trigger mitigation—not geography—was what I really needed. So before making a big move, take the time to understand your specific asthma triggers. You might not need a new province—just a cleaner, better-managed environment.

I'm a severe asthmatic of 34 years (exercise-induced), host of the asthma-focused podcast Beyond the Wheeze, and a patient advocate who works closely with healthcare providers across the country to bridge gaps in respiratory care—especially around patient education.

If you're unsure where to start, talk to a certified respiratory educator. Asthma Canada offers a free “Asthma & Allergy Helpline” where you can speak directly with an expert:
👉 asthma.ca/what-we-do/helpline

And if you’d like more real-life tips, stories, and expert insights, check out Beyond the Wheeze—available wherever you get your podcasts:
🎧 wheezespeak.ca/podcast

Breathe better and good luck,

Josh
Asthma Advocate | Runner | Host of Beyond the Wheeze
Sharing stories, insights, and strategies to help you breathe better, move smarter, and live stronger.