'Fight for Air Climb' raises thousands for research, education

The American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb in Minneapolis had another successful year, raising more than $200,000 in Saturday's event.

There were more than 120 first responders and dozens of more people who have been or are affected by lung disease, climbing the stairs of U.S. Bank Plaza. People climbed 31 floors with a total of 680 stairs.

Lung disease affects all ages — the youngest climber was 8, and the oldest was 71.

According to the Mayo Clinic, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women. Many people climbing Saturday were doing it to honor a loved one. 

“The American Lung Association made it really special for us. Now every year it's something really special to honor her,” Dana Amundson said about her mother, who passed away from lung cancer about five years ago. 

“She is a huge part of today,” Amundson added. “They feel like she's here with me. So it's very emotionally charged, in a good way.”

The climb raises awareness and money for education, research, and advocacy in Minnesota. 

Anyone can climb. If you’re interested in next year's event or would like to help organizers reach — or surpass  — their goal, visit the Fight For Air Climb's website.