Sleep apnea affects millions of people across the United States, yet many still struggle to recognize its symptoms, access timely testing, or feel understood in their diagnostic journey. To help fill these gaps, Project Sleep was launched Sleep Apnea: Let’s face it!a year-round awareness campaign aimed at shattering stereotypes and highlighting the real faces and stories behind this serious sleep disorder.
As Sleep Apnea Education Week (April 18-26) approaches, the campaign is taking center stage by calling on individuals, families, clinicians and advocates to join a national effort to improve understanding and support of people with sleep apnea.
Breaking down stereotypes through vision
A key feature of the campaign is to encourage people who support the sleep apnea community to share a special photo on social media. To participate in the campaign, participants must download the official file “Sleep apnea: let’s face it!” Bannertake a photo of them holding it, and share it on social media because of their “participation” in sleep apnea awareness using the hashtag #SleepApneaLetsFaceIt And tagging the sleep project.
Doctors and other healthcare professionals who work with people with sleep apnea are encouraged to participate in the campaign to raise awareness and show their support. free Charts, fact sheets, and graphics They can be downloaded to share online or printed and pinned to bulletin boards.
A campaign rooted in true stories
Sleep apnea is much more common than many realize, affecting an estimated 80 million adults in the United States — yet 80% of them remain undiagnosed. symptoms It can vary greatly, from gasping during sleep to morning headaches, irritability, and daytime sleepiness.
To challenge outdated assumptions, Sleep Apnea: Let’s Face It! raises Personal stories Of people across the United States with sleep apnea, such as:
- Chris AllenPediatric neurologist and sleep specialist
- Christine Cascioclinical social worker
- Chuck and Sandra Watsona retired couple who suffer from sleep apnea together
- Edgar Castro TelloProfessional sustainability
- Jeff Eddyregistered sleep technologist
- Emma Cookseypatient advocate and host of the Sleep Apnea Squad series
These stories help people recognize symptoms, feel less alone, and understand that treatment can change their lives.
Education that empowers
The Sleep Project’s broader educational efforts, incl Sleep apnea band The series provides accessible guidance on diagnosis, treatment options, CPAP comfort, reducing stigma, and daily living with sleep apnea. Hosted by patient advocate and sleep apnea program director at Project Sleep, Emma CookseyThe series includes videos, downloadable PDF toolkits, podcasts, and social media content.
Tune in to the next Sleep Apnea Squad stream, Women and sleep apneaduring Sleep Apnea Education Week. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 2 PM EST, A featured panel will discuss how sleep apnea can present differently in women and what women need to know about diagnosis and treatment.
Building a more supportive future
Sleep apnea is a serious chronic condition. However, with awareness, education and community support, people can access the testing and treatment they deserve. Sleep Apnea Project: Let’s face it! The campaign helps reshape the conversation by focusing on real people, real stories and real solutions.
With Sleep Apnea Education Week approaching, now is the perfect time to do just that Get involvedRaise your voice and help build a future where no one feels alone or rejected during their sleep apnea journey.
