Respiratory Care Week Celebrates a
25-Year Tradition
October 22–28, 2006

August 31, 2006

Where were you in 1982? It was a year of interesting beginnings and events:

• Compact Discs (CDs) were introduced
• USA Today newspaper was launched
• Graceland, home of Elvis Presley, opened to the public
•  PC clones hit the market
•  “Late Night with David Letterman” debuted
• AT&T agreed to divest itself into 22 subdivisions
• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in Washington, DC
• Israel invaded Lebanon
• Prince William was born to Charles and Di
• The first permanent artificial heart transplant took place
• “Ghandi” was awarded Best Motion Picture of 1982

But the most important event for respiratory therapists occurred in November of that year. National Respiratory Therapy Week was officially declared by Congress and the President. AARC staff and members from around the country joined together to contact their congressmen about this special week that would honor and raise awareness of the profession. Their efforts were rewarded when AARC executives visited the Oval Office to watch the signing of the proclamation by President Ronald Reagan.

Since then Respiratory Care Week has continued to grow and gain recognition. It is celebrated around the country in healthcare facilities, schools and the community. Not only do the events of RC Week recognize the contribution of respiratory therapists, but they also educate the public about lung health-related issues such as COPD, asthma and smoking cessation. There’s a new benefit available to AARC members now, too! Check out the RC Week Tool Kit for more information.

RC Week occurs this year on October 22-28. Please join us and your colleagues for the 25th annual celebration of the respiratory care profession.

To learn more, gather ideas for your celebration, and utilize tools to help you with your plans, visit the Respiratory Care Week website.  Browse The Respiratory Catalog to see official RC Week products and other promotional and educational products to support your events. Order online or contact Customer Service at 972-406-4684.