1austin reached into his backpack to make sure that it was there. he wasn’t sure he needed his inhaler, but he was checking just in case. his chest was tight as he once again attempted a deep breath. he completely filled his lungs and exhaled smoothly. he repeated this rhythm several times, surprised at the ease at which it came. but he’d keep the inhaler in his pocket. it had been a long time since he’d had a real asthma attack, since little league, in fact. but it was never too far from his mind, especially when he played baseball. 2 austin loved baseball, like fish love water, but he felt his asthma had probably kept him from reaching his full athletic potential. he knew today’s practice would be tough, for tomorrow was a big game. he was right. it was rough, and austin and several others weren’t at the top of their game today. coach tanner firmly patted austin’s shoulder as they headed for the dugout. “you’ve got to stop using it as a crutch, and let it go son.” coach said in a firm, low voice. austin kept his inhaler in his pocket because a) he often needed to use it. b) he had no where else to keep it. c) he needed to have it for reassurance. d) he wanted to know where it was at all times.