Fight for Air Climb returns for the 17th year to raise money for American Lung Association
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- More than a thousand people came together Saturday morning, March 1, to support the American Lung Association of Wisconsin.
"We are always honored to climb every year," said Lasonia McGee. She's participating for the seventh year and says it's a rewarding experience. "The challenge of getting to the top. It's very difficult. It helps you to experience what our first responders experience when they're trying to save people from fires or other conditions," she said,
Participants range in age from six years old to 94. The goal is to climb all 30 floors to raise money for the mission of the American Lung Association.
"To fund our education, research, and advocacy efforts to support all people with lung disease and lung health," said Megan Cordova, executive director.
This year marks the 17th year of the event. "It's a unique event and it has lots of energy. The lobby is electric," said Cordova.
The family friendly event is a fun way to make a difference and local first responders also get involved. "We have over 160 firefighters in full gear climbing today. It's 50-60 extra pounds of weight. They do it in full gear, they do it very quickly, some in under four minutes, which is pretty amazing and inspiring," she said.
The event raised over $400,000 but is still just shy of its $488,250 goal.
If you missed this year's event, you can still support the cause. Click here for more information on how to donate.