On World Lung Day, we’re highlighting the importance of protecting lung health and raising awareness of conditions that can affect how we breathe. For the Alpha-1 community, early detection, informed care, and continued research are essential to supporting those affected by Alpha-1-related lung conditions and advancing progress toward better treatments and a cure. Learn more about Alpha-1 lung health: alpha1.org/lung-disease/ #WorldLungDay

Research participation can help shape the future of Alpha-1. The Alpha-1 Research Registry connects individuals with researchers conducting important studies, helping advance our understanding of Alpha-1 and the search for better treatments and a cure. With more than 500 participants connected to clinical trial opportunities, the Alpha-1 Research Registry is helping turn participation into progress. Learn more and enroll today: alpha1.org/join-the-alpha-1-…

There is still time to submit your Letters of Intent (LOIs) for the 2026 – 2027 In-Cycle A1F Grants Award Program to support innovative research that advances our understanding of Alpha-1 and moves us closer to a cure! Funding is available across multiple grant categories for investigators committed to improving the lives of those affected by Alpha-1. LOIs are due this Friday, September 25, 2026. To learn more and apply, visit: alpha1.org/grant-opportuniti…

Did you know your donation to A1F could go even further through workplace giving? Many employers offer programs that make it easy to increase the impact of your support, including corporate matching gifts that may double or even triple your donation. You may also be able to support A1F through payroll deductions using United Way. Check with your employer or HR department to see what workplace giving opportunities are available to you. For more information, contact Linda Rodriguez at lrodriguez@alpha1.org or visit: alpha1.org/workplace-giving/

The Alpha-1 Foundation is on Capitol Hill today, advocating for Alphas nationwide and advancing priorities around access to care, awareness, and research. More than 20 patient advocates participated in over 65 meetings with Senate and House of Representatives offices, sharing their experiences and bringing the needs of the Alpha-1 community directly to policymakers. Pictured here with a legislative aide from Senator Ashley Moody’s office.

Looking for trusted information about Alpha-1? The A1F Resource Library offers a wide range of educational materials, guides, publications, and tools designed to help individuals, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals better understand and manage Alpha-1. Explore the resources available: alpha1.org/resource-library/

Understanding your insurance coverage can help you make informed decisions about your care. A1F’s Insurance resources provide information to help members of the Alpha-1 community navigate health insurance, understand coverage considerations, and find additional support when questions arise. Learn more: alpha1.org/insurance/

Alpha-1 Foundation staff and key opinion leaders attended the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress 2026 - one of the world’s largest international meetings in respiratory medicine - in Barcelona September 5th to 9th. The Alpha-1 Research Registry presented a poster entitled “Alpha-1 Foundation Research Registry: Lung and Liver Comorbidities of AATD Patients in the United States and the Need for Multidisciplinary Care," highlighting the overlap of lung and liver disease in Alpha-1 and the importance of collaboration among pulmonologists and hepatologists.

Excessive phlegm can be more than an inconvenience and may be an important sign of what’s happening in your lungs. Learn about common causes of excess mucus, how it can affect your breathing, and when to talk with your healthcare provider. Explore A1F’s resources to better understand your lung health: alpha1.org/excessive-phlegm/

Have an innovative clinical research idea focused on Alpha-1? The A1F Clinical Pilot Grant provides an opportunity for investigators to explore new approaches through research involving human subjects while building their work in the Alpha-1 field. Submit a Letter of Intent by September 25, 2026. Learn more: alpha1.org/grant-opportuniti…

A1F proudly recognizes #LaborDay and the workers whose dedication and contributions make a difference nationwide. 👷 Wishing the Alpha-1 community a safe and enjoyable holiday!

Living with Alpha-1 often means navigating challenges that extend beyond the diagnosis itself. In this personal article, Debbi Webb-Howells shares her experience living with supplemental oxygen and why she believes the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act is so important for people with Alpha-1 and other chronic lung conditions. Read Debbi's story and learn why improving access to supplemental oxygen matters: alpha1.org/living-with-alpha…

Invest in your future with support from A1F. A1F Educational Scholarships are available to Alphas and their immediate family members pursuing post-high school education, including those returning to school or making a career change. Applications and all required materials must be submitted by September 30, 2026. Learn more and apply: alpha1.org/alpha-1-education…

New studies are adding to what we know about Alpha-1 and opening the door to new questions and possibilities. Take a closer look at recently published research featured in A1F’s August 2026 PubMed roundup: alpha1.org/august-2026-pubme…

The next big idea in Alpha-1 research could start with a new question or a new approach. A1F’s Pilot and Feasibility Grant supports innovative projects that develop and test new hypotheses and methods in research relevant to Alpha-1. Researchers interested in applying for the 2026–2027 A1F Grants Award Program should submit a Letter of Intent by September 25, 2026. Learn more about the opportunity and how to apply: alpha1.org/grant-opportuniti…

September is here, which means A1F Riding for a Reason officially begins today! Whether you're riding virtually from anywhere or joining us in Cape Cod, MA, or Dunedin, FL, every mile you ride helps raise awareness and critical funds for Alpha-1 research, education, and patient programs. Set your goal, ride at your own pace, and be part of a nationwide movement making a difference for the Alpha-1 community. It's not too late to register and start riding: secure.alpha1.org/a1fridingf… #A1FRidingforaReason

The Boise A1F Education Day is underway, beginning with an Alpha-1 Foundation (A1F) Update from A1F Fred C. Walsh Speaker Bureau member Lisa Sideris. Today’s program features expert presentations, valuable resources, and opportunities to connect and learn more about Alpha-1. Can’t be with us in person? There’s still time to register as a virtual attendee and tune in online: alpha1.org/event/boise-id-a1…

Since her diagnosis years ago, Karin Pittsley has been advocating for better care and resources for people living with Alpha-1. In this article, she explains why the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act matters and how it could improve access to supplemental oxygen for those who depend on it. Read Karin's insightful perspective and learn why this legislation matters to the Alpha-1 community: alpha1.org/how-the-soar-act-…

A bright future starts with opportunity. A1F Educational Scholarships help Alphas and their immediate family members pursue higher education or return to school to achieve their academic and career goals. If you or a family member is looking to continue their education, apply today! Applications are due September 30, 2026. Learn more and submit your application: alpha1.org/alpha-1-education…

Kristen Mehan set out to climb 29,029 vertical feet, but her journey was about so much more than reaching the summit. Inspired by her father and driven by a passion to make a difference, Kristen turned an extraordinary challenge into an opportunity to raise awareness and support for the Alpha-1 community. Read her inspiring story: alpha1.org/kristen-mehan-cli…