Enniskillen author and charity trustee Clare Donohoe recently addressed the Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Interdisciplinary Network conference on the issue of pulmonary fibrosis - something which is very close to her heart.

The conference was held at the University of Birmingham on October 6 and 7.

ILD describes a large group of disorders, most of which cause progressive scarring of lung tissue.

Clare’s husband, Tom, passed away earlier this year following a courageous battle with the disease.

Earlier this year, the mum-of-two authored a book on how families can deal with a pulmonary fibrosis diagnosis, entitled 'Pete the Puffling’s Brave Adventure', with the book co-authored with Janet Bamford.

They travelled together to the conference to represent Pulmonary Fibrosis NI.

The conference brought together experts and enthusiasts in the field of interstitial lung diseases to explore topics such as diagnosis, supportive care, immunotherapy, and career development.

The conference served as an opportunity to connect, learn, and advance the understanding of interstitial lung diseases and was attended by delegates from across the United Kingdom, Ireland, the USA and the Netherlands.

Clare said: “Pulmonary Fibrosis NI were represented with a stand and we had a great interest in our work in supporting patients, carers and families with pulmonary fibrosis, and in our children's book, 'Pete the Puffling's Brave Adventure'.

"We have been asked to get the book translated into different languages by the delegates.

“Tom was honoured at the conference, and an award will be dedicated in his name at next year's conference, which will recognise excellence in the field of research/supporting patients with lung disease.”