When doctors can’t see, families are left in the dark
Lung disease is an invisible crisis. Currently, standard tests like spirometry and computerised tomography (CT) scans are performed to provide answers. However, these standard tests are often hard to perform or unsafe for children due to the ionising radiation.
A new approach to imaging was needed that is safe, repeatable and accurate. Researchers from the Insigneo Institute at the University of Sheffield have developed breakthrough, radiation-free magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to provide clinicians with clear, real-time imaging of the air we breathe.
Tamlin’s story
When Tamlin was born, he was immediately put on a ventilator. But we had no idea when he might be able to breathe on his own.
Premature babies are so vulnerable to infection, and CT scans were too dangerous for his lungs due to radiation exposure. Every single test, needle, or procedure is a risk. So the doctors told us we’d have to take a ‘suck it and see’ approach to removing the ventilator.
Taking him off the ventilator failed twice. I witnessed it all. It was one of the worst moments of my life.
This new MRI scanning technology will genuinely make such a difference to families. I wish I could’ve experienced it, it would have made my life far better. But I’m glad to know that improvements are coming for others.
Zoë
Mum to Tamlin
A new way to see inside young lungs
By inhaling a safe gas, called xenon, and using existing MRI scanners, doctors can now see how lung disease is affecting a child in real-time and choose the best type of treatment. This is changing the way doctors diagnose and treat children with lung conditions like bronchiectasis, asthma, and cystic fibrosis.
Zoe’s story
I knew that something was wrong when Zoe developed a cold that just kept getting worse. And after hours in A&E, Zoe was diagnosed with Adenovirus Pneumonia. I knew that it was going to be a slow road to recovery.
But weeks passed and Zoe kept getting worse. We spent weeks in and out of A&E and the GP surgery, always being sent home without answers. I knew that something was wrong, so I pursued a diagnosis for Zoe. We went through countless X-rays and CT scans, bloods and even more tests.
Her lungs are inflamed, producing mucus that acts as a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria creates more damage which leads to inflammation, creating an endless cycle.
But thanks to a new type of MRI imaging being trialled in Sheffield, doctors were able to see inside Zoe’s lungs.
Sarah
Mum to 5-year-old Zoe
This isn’t just one story, it’s thousands
This new technology will help provide answers for premature babies, asthma & undiagnosed children, and cystic fibrosis. However, access to this new MRI technique is a postcode lottery – currently, the research is novel to the UK, and only accessible in Sheffield.
Asthma affects around one in 11 children in the UK, while more than 11,000 people are living with cystic fibrosis. For many young patients, diagnosing and monitoring these conditions remains difficult, particularly for children too young to perform standard breathing tests.
Your support helps us:
- Use MRI to monitor treatments in real-time
- Spot structural damage and airway blockages that standard tests miss, allowing for earlier intervention
- Provides definitive imaging needed to replace guesswork with clear treatment plans
- Ensure every child receives the precise, personalised care they need
Help bring this technology to every child, walk to help children breathe easier
By supporting the Big Walk 2026, you’re helping us shine a light on serious lung disease in children. Every step you take and every pound you raise will directly fund life-changing research, ending the silent struggle of children battling the unknown.
And thanks to a generous donor, all fundraising up to £75,000 will be matched.
Taking place on Friday 3 July 2026, this year's walk invites you to tackle a 20 or 30 mile route through the breath-taking Peak District.