Jay was a Taskforce member from January 2018. He sadly passed away in October 2019. Jay was a patient representative with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (or COPD). He was an ardent supporter of the Taskforce.

Jay was instrumental to both the production of the five year plan and the work that the group has carried out in trying to implement the plan’s recommendations for the benefit of patients.

In his role as a Taskforce member, and through his contributions to the diagnosis and pulmonary rehabilitation working groups, he relentlessly championed the rights of people living with lung disease to ensure that they get the best quality care and support that they deserve. His passion and eloquence will be sorely missed.

“Lung disease is under-recognised and largely invisible. Seldom are the people who are living with lung conditions and being treated for it listened to. I hope the Taskforce’s recommendations will enable people like me to be heard.”Jay Dowle, patient representative, January 2018 – October 2019

Tributes to Jay

“Jay was an inspiration and a joy to work with.  He was eloquent, charming and persistent in ensuring that the patient voice was heard and acted on. I feel very privileged to have worked with him; he taught us such a lot. I will miss him as a colleague and as a friend.”Dr Alison Cook, Chair of the Taskforce for Lung Health

“Jay was a real advocate and champion who will be missed from the group.”Wendy Preston, Royal College of Nursing

“Jay was passionate about his work as a patient representative on the Taskforce. He wanted to make a difference and was very determined to make sure all aspects of patients’ needs were considered.”Maxine Flewett, carer representative

“Jay will be sorely missed by those who knew him and who had the honour to attend various meetings with him, as I have over a number of years. He was such an engaged, knowledgeable and wise patient advocate.”John Conway, patient representative

“Jay has been a marvellous ambassador for lung problems and was so good speaking at the House of Commons last year. I was privileged to know Jay in some of our meetings and will treasure the times we had together!”Dr Steve Holmes, Royal College of General Practitioners