A Reason to Climb 804 Stairs

NORWALK, OH (02/10/2012)(readMedia)-- What would inspire you to take on a new challenge? What if that challenge offered an opportunity to make a difference in yourself, honor the memory of a loved one, or the chance to bond with old friends and make some new ones?

Aspire to do all of these things, by joining the American Lung Association on Sunday, February 19, at the annual Fight for Air Climb at the Carew Tower in downtown Cincinnati. The event offers a unique experience where participants climb 804 Stairs (or 45 stories) to the top of the Carew Tower to raise awareness and funds in support of local education, research and advocacy programs. Beginners and experienced climbers are welcome to come join the hundreds already involved in the fight against lung disease.

Roxanne Barnes of Ohio's Anderson Township was inspired to take on the challenge of climbing 45 flights of stairs because she lost a dear friend in a painful battle against lung cancer around the time of the event in 2010. She learned that many of the people she knows have also lost loved ones or been affected by lung disease, and they add inspiration for her climb.

Barnes explained, "Climbing for others who cannot inspires me to participate in the climb again this year."

Roxanne Barnes became involved because of a personal connection to the American Lung Association's mission, but the unique experience the climb provided has contributed to her decision to return again this year. "It is quick, fun, challenging, and encouraging," but "seeing the firefighters climb in their full gear-and knowing that they do this professionally to save lives" was especially captivating for Barnes.

For those of you who think that climbing up 804 stairs could not possibly be "quick and fun," Roxanne cautions that she once thought that herself too. Her advice for you is "as you race, remember the reason and the people for whom you race." You don't have to win the race, just finish at your own pace, and enjoy the experience!

The event's director, Liza Aromas-Janosik, reports that the climb grows each year. "We are expecting to have over 600 participants attend. There's no better view of Cincinnati than from the top of the Carew Tower."

Climb Day starts with the Vertical Mile Challenge bright and early at 7am. This part of the event is for those conditioned athletes looking for a real physical challenge. They will climb the Carew Tower 10 times up and down, plus an additional 8 floors and 6 steps for a total of one vertical mile.

The majority of the participants will participate in the Competitive and Casual Climbs; they will race or climb at their own pace from 10:30am-1pm.

From 1-2pm is the Firefighter Challenge where teams wearing their full structural firefighting protective equipment, are timed on their climb.

Climbers receive medals for completing, and will enjoy refreshments at the Celebration Reception. Awards are also given to the top fundraising individuals and teams in each division.

All festivities will be held at the Carew Tower, 441 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH.

Registration fees and climb details can be found at www.ClimbtheCarew.org or call (513) 985-3990 for more information.

Come out and join the American Lung Association at the 7th annual Fight for Air Climb.