14 September 2026
A support group which provides advice, friendship and reassurance to people living with pulmonary fibrosis is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
The Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group was set up by Faye Turner from the Respiratory team at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in 2016.
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung disease characterised by the thickening, stiffening, and scarring of the tissue around and between the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs.
The group started with just five members and has since grown to welcome around 20 to 30 people each month at Long Knowle Community Centre.
Meetings give patients and their families the chance to talk openly, share experiences and get advice from others who understand the challenges of living with pulmonary fibrosis.
A range of guest speakers also attend throughout the year, including pulmonary rehabilitation Physiotherapists and Police representatives, while Consultants attend to offer clinical advice and answer questions.
Faye Turner, Respiratory Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Specialist at RWT, said: “I’m very proud of the group. It has been running for so long and the feedback and attendance we have had has been amazing.
“It’s really nice that patients feel able to open up to us. This helps us understand their experiences and means we can become better Nurses and offer them the support they need.”
Faye and Tina Evans, Respiratory Specialist Nurse, started the support group together and have been a huge part of its success.
Patients can also contact the team through a dedicated mobile number during office hours if they need support between appointments.
Carol, 66, has been attending the group for nearly four years and values being able to speak to both the Nurses and other patients.
She said: “The sharing of information and having access to the Nurses between appointments gives me the support I need.
“You can talk to other people and get advice. There are things you might not expect, such as how difficult getting insurance to go on holiday can be, and it helps being able to talk about these things with people who understand.”
Irene, 74, has been living with pulmonary fibrosis for 12 years.
She said: “The group is very good for positivity, putting fears at ease and being supportive.
“It’s great for partners and families too because you make friendships here. The Nurses are amazing, they are accessible and will always help if you have any concerns.”