Hunter Medical Research Institute statistics reveal the Hunter is a hot spot for asthma.

More than 10 per cent of people in the Hunter have asthma, compared to a state average of 9.2 per cent.

The disease accounts for 9.1 per cent of hospitalisations in the Hunter.

Kerri-Ann and Wade Hooper are all too familiar with the harrowing sound of their children gasping for air in the middle of the night.

Their son Cameron, 15, was diagnosed with asthma when he was one.

Trips to the doctors and emergency department were not uncommon for young Cameron.

His sister, Kristy, now 17, has been asthmatic since age five.

Their symptoms have since eased. However, they must be managed daily with preventative medication.

With their children in mind, Mr and Mrs Hooper wanted to start a fundraising initiative to support Asthma Foundation NSW's research for a cure.

Thus, 5K A Day in May was born.

The campaign encourages people, either individually or as a team, to walk, run, swim or ride five kilometres a day in May.

Last year five teams, with the Hoopers at the helm, raised about $3000.

Mr Hooper, who has also battled with asthma, said he and his family were thankful the community had rallied to help thousands of people just like them.

"It's equally as important to raise the funds as it is to get the awareness out there as it is to get people to exercise," he said.

"They're three things that all count."

This year with 18 teams taking part, they have raised about $5000 and donations are still rolling in. All funds go to the foundation's research and support programs, such as its information hotline.

■ Donations are still open. Go to everydayhero.com.au/event/5kadayinmay.