Together, we can give breaths to the breathless
CureTBM, founded by Jennifer Champy, is devoted to raising awareness about TracheoBronchoMalacia in children and adults.
The team at CureTBM advocates, educates and provides research funding to help find a cure for TBM.
CureTBM is the ONLY non-profit in the WORLD to fund TBM research!
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Cure TBM was awarded "A 2020 Top-Rated Nonprofit"
by "Great Nonprofits" in July 2020! Click here to read the reviews!
We need your help! Please vote for our founder, Jennifer, by clicking the "thumbs up" icons to endorse her for: "Advocating for Another," "Best in Show: Facebook," "Healthcare Collaborator," and "Patient Leader Hero!" Click here to vote!
What is Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) ?
Tracheobronchomalacia, or TBM for short, is a softening (malacia) of the trachea (wind pipe) and bronchi (passageways into the lungs). When these areas are weak they often collapse, making the airway very narrow and cause breathing difficulties for patients. There are two forms of TBM, primary tracheobronchomalacia, which is seen in pediatric patients, and secondary tracheobronchomalacia which is seen in adults. TBM has previously been thought to be a rare medical condition, when in reality, the condition is under/misdiagnosed.
Symptoms of TBM include:
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persistent cough
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inability to clear secretions
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difficulty breathing (specifically exhaling, or breathing out)
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chronic infections
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"barking" cough
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low oxygen levels
CureTBM works with many medical centers, including Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Boston Children's Hospital, to assist patients in being evaluated and diagnosed. Both of these facilities are located in Boston, Massachusetts.
Once diagnosed with TBM, treatment options vary and are specific to the patient. Options may include respiratory therapy, medications, and/or surgical intervention. For specific information please select one of the links below to find out more about TBM and how it may relate to you, or your loved one specifically.
Connect with Us!
We are here to help you drive change. Together, we will shape the future!
Phone: 1-973-534-7158
Email: info@curetbm.org
Instagram: @curetbm
Twitter: @TbmCure
Mailing Address:
CureTBM C/O Jennifer Champy
128 Pennsylvania Court
Chapin, SC 29036
News & Publications
News & Events
Recent Publications
In tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and other disorders, weakened airway walls lead to expiratory central airway collapse (ECAC) and can cause symptoms of cough, dyspnea, retained secretions, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Diagnosis of severe ECAC is based on the presence of >90% expiratory airway collapse on dynamic computed tomography (CT) and/or bronchoscopy. To learn more, click here!
In tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and other disorders, weakened airway walls lead to expiratory central airway collapse (ECAC) and can cause symptoms of cough, dyspnea, retained secretions, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Diagnosis of severe ECAC is based on the presence of >90% expiratory airway collapse on dynamic computed tomography (CT) and/or bronchoscopy. To find out more, click here!
How do we treat Tracheomalacia?
Effects of Posterior Tracheopexy
Dr. Russell Jennings of Boston Children' Hospital explains the various treatment options for Tracheomalacia in pediatric patients. Watch this short video using model demonstrations to better understand the various types of airway collapse: posterior intrusion, anterior collapse and vasular Compression. For more information on treatment options, contact Boston Children's Hospital (617) 355-3038.