American Lung Association - Fighting for Air

Why I got involved???

In November 2009 I had just lost my Mother to Lung Cancer. It was a year and half battle that included a partial lung removal, chemotherapy and radiation.  A brave fight with a heart breaking end.  As a daughter, I struggled to understand how to move forward without the most important figure being present in my life each day.  Would I ever heal?

My first Climb was in 2010, I wore a shirt honoring my Mother. To my surprise I wasn't the only one. Many people walking around with purpose and devotion to loved ones, friends and family. Shirts showing people with lung related diseases who had beat their illness, people who didn't and those who were currently in a battle for their lives. An entire community of people brought together by a similar cause, putting a face to this disease.

The following year, my Father was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer. My initial thought was utter sadness. Knowing my family would struggle again with the same disease, it seemed impossible to understand. 6 months later he passed away after a brave fight. As my 2nd Climb approached, I felt I had more purpose to climb, more cause to work harder, climb faster and raise more money. Awareness! That was my goal. My team grew, our fundraising dollars increased and those around us wanted to know how they could get involved.

In reflection, I found this event was my connection to my parents. My way to keep their memory alive. Letting those around me know, I had a cause. Since then I have met many people like me who have lost friends and family to lung related illness.

What is great about this event is that you don't need to have a direct connection to someone with a lung related illness. Maybe you are looking for a new challenge, a new way to exercise, a fun event for you and your friends. Believe me, whatever your reason is, it is good enough.

There is something amazing happening in our community! I challenge you to join! See you at The Climb!