Fighting the Good Fight

Do you know what it feels like to not be able to breathe? Breathing is a basic function needed to exist, but it’s hard to do with medical conditions and diseased lungs.

The American Lung Association wants to raise awareness and research funds for diseases like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer with a special event. The 9^th annual Fight For Air Climb will be held on Feb. 16 at Rhodes Tower.

Senior Development Manager Brittany Sinzinger said this is the organization’s largest fundraiser, usually bringing in $100,000 that stays local to be used for research, patient education, informational programs in schools, and advocacy efforts.

“Typically, lung cancer is associated with smoking, Sinzinger said. "But it doesn’t mean you have to have smoked to have lung cancer. There are other factors to be aware of. What we want to do is educate people and save lives.”

Ohio Basement Authority is excited to partner with the local American Lung Association in this special event. Some of our team members will be volunteering by handing out water to participants and cheering them on as they climb Rhodes Tower’s 40 floors. We also will have an informational table where you can learn about creating a healthier home.

Along with the essential education pieces, the Fight For Air Climb promises to be a challenging and entertaining event. Locally, it has grown immensely from 50 participants in the first climb, to an estimated 450 climbers this time around. The climb’s varied crowd includes families, athletic participants, those suffering with asthma and COPD, and even firefighters who trek up the stairs in full gear.

To learn more about the local Fight For Air Climb, or to register or donate, go to www.climbcolumbus.org.