#United States #Chicago #Lung Cancer #American Lung Association #LUNG FORCE

Thousands Across America Lace Up to End Lung Cancer

This upcoming fall, the American Lung Association is excited to announce its LUNG FORCE Walk series, featuring five vibrant events throughout the United States. These gatherings aim to raise both awareness and funds for lung health, specifically targeting the fight against lung cancer and other lung diseases.

A Call to Action

Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “We invite everyone to join us in honoring lung cancer survivors and remembering those we’ve lost. It’s crucial to raise funds for the more than 35 million individuals in the U.S. battling chronic lung diseases.” This year marks the 12th anniversary of the LUNG FORCE Initiative, during which more than $32 million has been allocated to groundbreaking lung cancer research.

Lung cancer tragically remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., with a diagnosis occurring approximately every two minutes. But there is hope! Thanks to heightened awareness and advancements in medical treatments, the five-year survival rate has risen to nearly 30% in the past decade. The fight against lung cancer hinges on continued research funding, increased screening awareness, and reducing stigma.

Upcoming Events

The five LUNG FORCE Walks for fall 2026 are set to bring communities together in a powerful show of support. Participants will not only walk for health but will also raise essential funds needed for research and advocacy. Here are the details of these significant events:

• - LUNG FORCE Walk Chicago: Presented by Northwestern Medicine, taking place at Cantigny Park in Chicago, IL on September 13.
• - LUNG FORCE Walk New Jersey: This event will be held at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ on September 26.
• - LUNG FORCE Walk Cleveland: In partnership with Cleveland Clinic, this walk will be situated at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on September 27.
• - LUNG FORCE Run/Walk Charleston: Scheduled for October 17 at The Dunes House in Folly Beach, SC.
• - LUNG FORCE Walk Long Island: Concludes the series at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, NY on October 24.

Registration for these walks is currently open and free, allowing friends, families, running clubs, and corporate teams to join in the pursuit of a lung disease-free world. Moreover, for those unable to attend these events, there are also DIY fundraising opportunities to contribute from anywhere.

Make a Difference

By participating in the LUNG FORCE events, you can support the American Lung Association in its mission to combat lung cancer, enhance air quality, lessen the impact of lung diseases on families, and help realize a tobacco-free future. Remarkably, 90% of funds raised directly aid research, programming, and advocacy efforts.

We encourage everyone to register and become part of an inspiring movement dedicated to impacting countless lives battling lung disease. For further information and registration details, please visit LUNGFORCE.org/Walk. Your involvement could bring us a step closer to eradicating lung cancer and improving public health on a grand scale.

For those seeking to learn more about the American Lung Association's impactful work in lung health education, advocacy, and research, feel free to call 1-800-LUNGUSA or explore Lung.org.

Together, let’s make strides toward a healthier future for lungs everywhere!