Asthma Doesn't Stop 70-Story Climb

Related Media

Robert Phillips Picture

OAK PARK, MI (02/18/2010)(readMedia)-- The stairwells of Detroit's Renaissance Center will be full of energetic climbers on Sunday, February 28, 2010 as participants compete in the American Lung Association's 4th annual Fight For Air Climb Detroit (formerly Climb Detroit).

Among those ascending Michigan's tallest building will be Robert Phillips of Madison Heights. Phillips has struggled with asthma his entire life.

"As a kid and young adult, I wasn't able to take part in physical activities or exercise because even the slightest amount of exertion would trigger an asthma attack, said Phillips. "With the release of more preventative medications, I found that I was able to do so many things that I couldn't when I was younger."

Since then Phillips has looked for ways to challenge himself and push his body to "that next level".

"The Fight For Air climb is a great way to do just that. It's challenging on not only a physical level, but a mental level as well. There's such a sense of accomplishment when you reach that 70th floor," he continued.

Upon completion of the climb, Phillips will be joined by the climb team that has participated with him since 2007 and raising more than $5,900 since that first year. All proceeds from Fight For Air Climb Detroit will go towards lung health research, education and advocacy in Michigan and benefit the work of the American Lung Association in Michigan.

Why does Phillips come back to climb each year? He wants to see if he can improve. "Having a static event like the stair climb is a great barometer for how far I've come in a year. Knowing it's there is a great motivational tool to stay in shape and to encourage others to join me. If I can do it, anyone can do it."

Phillips likes the Fight For Air Climb -- not only because it's a great challenge, but because "it raises awareness for people like me who struggle with asthma and other lung diseases and brings together a great group of people for a common goal."

He also likes that the event is downtown, "and draws people from all over to our great city."

The 2010 Fight For Air Climb Detroit is Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 9:00am at the Detroit Renaissance Center. For more information, please visit www.ClimbDetroit.org or call 1-248-784-2000. Registration is $50 with a $100 pledge minimum.

NOTE TO PRESS: For interview opportunities, please contact Jessie Jimenez-Schlicht at (248) 784-2018 or jjimenez@alam.org.