Fight for Air Climb raises funds for lung research – Action News Jax

By Anthony C. Champine Last updated Apr 9, 2022

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Hundreds of people took part in the American Lung Association’s Air Climb Struggle at TIAA Bank Field on Saturday.

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This marked the 14th year of the event and community members were challenged to climb over 1,600 steps.

The goal: a world without lung disease.

Action News Jax spoke with Jack Avery, who serves on the American Lung Association’s Ascent Committee.

“I have COPD,” Avery said. “I want to prove that COPD can’t kill you. You can kill him. This is my 14th ascent and it is the most wonderful exercise in the world.

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Avery said he wanted to encourage others who feel they can’t participate in times like the Fight for Air Climb due to their COPD.

“I say get up and do it,” Avery said. “You can do it. It can be done.”

He expressed the importance of keeping your lungs cool, as he said he was a former smoker who had to deal with the effects of smoking.

“Quit smoking,” Avery said. “If you smoke, throw them away.”

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American Lung Association board member Kate Mays hopes people will support the cause in any way they can. She has a 4 month old daughter and wants to teach her how to live a healthy life.

“It’s a great organization that raises awareness and funds a lot for lung research,” Mays said. “I’m just proud to be here.”

Individuals, families, firefighters, first responders and corporate crews from across North Florida took part in the climb.

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Organizers say money raised at the Fight For Air Climb Jacksonville will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support The Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative. the organization. The COVID-19 Action Initiative is a $25 million investment to fight COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics.

Organizers say they raised more than $114,000 on Saturday.

More than 300 participants took part in the climb, including 41 teams.

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