Wildfire smoke is not just a seasonal nuisance—it’s a deadly threat. A recent article recounts the heartbreaking story of nine-year-old Carter Vigh, from 100 Mile House, whose fatal asthma attack was worsened by persistent wildfire smoke. He’s not alone: the same article notes that tens of thousands of people globally, including many in Canada, lose their lives prematurely each year because of smoke pollution.
Why Carter’s Story Hits Home
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Carter was only nine. His death underscores how vulnerable children are to air quality issues—which can trigger asthma attacks, respiratory distress, and worse.
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His community, and many more across British Columbia, routinely face heavy smoke during wildfire season. Without accurate, local air quality data and clean air tools, people can’t make life-saving decisions.
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Carter’s loss is part of a global pattern: wildfires are increasing, smoke exposure is growing, and the health impacts—and human costs—are becoming more severe.
What We’re Doing About It: The Carter Project
TB Vets, in partnership with the BC Lung Foundation, is acting. In memory of Carter, we have launched Carter’s Project, a focused effort to protect those most at risk: children, seniors, people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. This work includes:
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Outdoor & indoor air quality monitors for underserved communities
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HEPA-filtered devices, clean-air DIY kits, and workshops to help families reduce smoke exposure at home
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Lung health education so people can recognize risk early—and act
So far, the initiative has reached communities like Dawson Creek, and on September 16, we’ll bring these tools and resources to Gold River. Residents there will have access to free indoor monitors, DIY air cleaner workshops, and sessions on lung health.
What You Can Do
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Stay informed about air quality where you live; follow local monitoring updates and advisories.
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If you experience smoke, use indoor clean-air strategies: HEPA filters, limiting outdoor time, and keeping indoor air as clean as possible.
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Support initiatives like Carter’s Project — your donation helps bring both the tools and the knowledge needed to protect health.
