ATLANTA — Here in Georgia, more than 1.4 million people live with lung disease, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. To help fund its work to end lung disease and save lives, the American Lung Association in Georgia announced that it is hosting the iconic Fight For Air Climb Atlanta at Promenade Tower on Saturday, April 20. This year marks the 18th anniversary of the Fight For Air Climb Atlanta, the city’s premier stair-climbing event.
“Every year, it is truly inspiring to see hundreds of community members step up to raise awareness and funds for their family, friends and neighbors who are living with lung disease. This event also helps fund our work to prevent lung disease, like programs to educate teens about vaping, help people quit smoking and clean up local air pollution,” said Rachel Webster, chair of the Fight For Air Climb Atlanta, member of the Lung Association’s Georgia Leadership Board and branch manager at Raymond James and Associates. “Every breath counts. Our community is making every step count, too."
The American Lung Association in Georgia is recognizing the contributions of Dr. Gerald Staton, Jr., preeminent pulmonologist and former division director of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Emory School of Medicine. Dr. Staton was an active member of the Lung Association and a steadfast supporter of the Fight For Air Climb since its inception, raising thousands of dollars for lung health. Dr. Staton passed in November 2023. The Lung Association has established the “Dr. Gerald Staton, Jr. Fundraising Award,” which will be awarded each year to the top individual fundraiser.
The Fight For Air Climb Atlanta is designed for every type of climber, from beginners to competitive climbers to first responders in full gear. Participants determine their pace. With 40 floors and more than 800 stairs, Promenade Tower in Midtown Atlanta is the perfect setting for a day of fun, challenge and camaraderie.
Participation in the Fight For Air Climb Atlanta supports the work of the Lung Association to defeat lung cancer, improve the air we breathe, reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families and eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases.