As I wrote that title, a multitude of other similar questions flitted into my brain.
To save you a few minutes of worry, the answer to them all is “no”.
Asthma does not count you out – neither from competitive, high-level sport nor lower-level, amateur, just-for-fun-and-fitness sport.
Neither does having one leg, one arm or no legs and no arms.
You are not counted out from anything until you count yourself out!
I remember hearing about the story of the first female armless pilot. Yes, you read that right. It wasn’t a typo. The pilot flew the plane WITHOUT arms. If seeing is believing, watch Jessica Cox in action via YouTube here.
Just because you are without something the world considers important – be that finances, a body part (or several), or the right qualifications – does not mean you are disqualified from getting involved and bringing your A-game. Because you never know, your A-game could be record-breaking, and if so it is certainly inspiring. And the world needs more inspiration; we can never get enough of it.
Because if you fighting through and beyond your visible (or invisible) disability inspires others to believe in their ability to thrive despite their “limitations”, you have benefitted more than just yourself. And you will be blessed for it.
So, young boy who told me you love to play basketball but will have to quit now you’ve found out you have asthma, no, asthma does not disqualify you. You can keep playing. How do I know? I was diagnosed with the condition at age 15 and continued to participate in sport at a high level.
Whatever your disability, you are more than capable of continuing. You are more than capable of greatness.
And if you’re still not convinced, where were you all summer when the Paralympic Games were on in Rio de Janeiro and televised worldwide?!
Keep playing.
You are not counted out from anything until you count yourself out.
Obviously asthma has different triggers that require different approaches with various outcomes. I treated a hockey player that suffered multiple levels of mid and lower thoracic joint dysfunction. After restoring proper function this player no longer suffered from “sports induced asthma.” Health is a complicated issue, however, a good practitioner will do everything possible to help restore function allowing a patient to maximize quality living. There are frequently more options available than the average consumer realizes.
Thank you for your added professional insights!