Hundreds of Boston-area residents gathered at One Boston Place on Saturday to participate in the American Lung Association’s annual Fight For Air Climb Boston. This challenging event involved climbing 789 stairs to the 41st floor of the local landmark, all in the name of raising awareness and funds for lung diseases and lung cancer research, advocacy, and education. The participants collectively raised over $250,000 for this important cause.
The vertical climb was designed to simulate the difficulties faced by individuals living with breathing issues. It aimed to emphasize the heavy burden on their lungs and the challenges they encounter every day. Kelly Pszenny, one of the climbers, shared her personal motivation for participating in the event. She climbed in memory of her mother, Rose, who suffered from COPD. Pszenny vividly recalled the pain of watching her mother struggle, saying, “Just seeing my mother suffer, it killed me. This is really the true feeling, our lungs are so heavy we really can’t breathe.”
The event attracted not only individuals but also participants from the firefighting community. Dozens of firefighters joined the climb, donning their full equipment to symbolize the added weight and difficulty faced by those with lung diseases.
Wellpoint, a health benefits company serving Massachusetts state and municipal employees, retirees, and their families, sponsored the Fight For Air Climb Boston. Their support played a crucial role in making the event a success and helped raise significant funds for lung health initiatives.
Dan Fitzgerald, the American Lung Association’s Director of Advocacy, highlighted the importance of events like these. He emphasized that raising awareness and funds enables the organization to provide cutting-edge treatment options and support for individuals dealing with lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Every penny raised contributes to making a difference in the lives of those affected by these conditions.
For individuals interested in learning more about the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb Boston or making a donation, additional information is available on the organization’s website at FightForAirClimb.org/Boston.
The Fight For Air Climb Boston showcased the Boston community’s dedication to improving lung health and supporting individuals affected by lung diseases. The event not only challenged participants physically but also united them under a common cause. It served as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by those living with breathing difficulties and the urgent need for continued research, advocacy, and education in this field.
In conclusion, the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb Boston was a resounding success, attracting hundreds of participants and raising over $250,000. This significant achievement will undoubtedly contribute to advancements in lung health and provide support for individuals battling lung diseases and lung cancer. The event’s impact, both in terms of raising awareness and funds, serves as a testament to the Boston community’s commitment to fighting for air and ensuring a healthier future for all.
