Local Residents Join LUNG FORCE Run/Walk to Support Lung Cancer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (August 5, 2019) – On Saturday, August 24, the American Lung Association in Florida will host its annual LUNG FORCE Run/Walk presented by Florida Blue to support lung cancer patients. Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer of women and men in America, and the American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE initiative seeks to make lung cancer a public health priority, drive policy change and increase research funding.

This year’s run/walk will take place at a new location, the Haskell Building downtown along the scenic riverfront. The race is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. and will feature a variety of activities for all attendees. The pet-friendly event will include its annual dog competition for the most spirited pup. A kid’s zone with inflatables, face painting, and more will also be available.
“Although lung cancer is the leading cancer killer of women and men in the United States, few are aware of the widespread impact of the disease in our community. said Bethany Webb, Development Manager of the American Lung Association. “The reality is that anyone can get lung cancer. We invite everyone in Jacksonville and surrounding areas to join us and rally with friends, neighbors and colleagues as we unite against lung cancer and for patients everywhere.”

According to the Lung Association's 4th annual Lung Health Barometer, awareness about the impact of lung cancer in women is extremely low. Even though lung cancer has long been the #1 cancer killer of women, lung cancer is not a top-of-mind health concern for 97 percent of women. Every day, more than 400 friends, neighbors, and loved ones lose their lives to lung cancer, with a new diagnosis occurring every two and a half minutes.

“As a two-year survivor of lung cancer, I am passionate we will find a cure for lung disease in order to give everyone affected a fighting chance to beat the number one cancer killer of men and women in the U.S.,” said Pat Fitzpatrick, a local LUNG FORCE Hero and Florida representative for Advocacy Week.

As Lung Force Heroes we are inspired, encouraged and empowered to raise our voices against lung disease. We walk in the Lung Force Walk/Run to raise awareness, early detection and research funding. This event is a vital source of support and hope for those that have survived or are currently undergoing treatment for lung disease.”

In Florida, approximately 18,560 of women and men are diagnosed with lung cancer each year, and on average, only 46.7 percent of women with lung cancer will be alive one year after diagnosis. With one of the lowest survival rates compared to other major cancers, early detection and treatment is key to saving lives. However, screening is currently underutilized, as estimates indicate that less than 5 percent of high-risk Americans have been screened for lung cancer. LUNG FORCE educates and empowers patients and healthcare providers and raises critical funds for research into better early detection methods and precision treatments for lung cancer.

“We owe it to our community – to every woman and man who has the potential to face a lung disease in their future – to raise awareness about prevention, screenings, and treatment options,” said Amy Ruth, LUNG FORCE cabinet chair. “LUNG FORCE does that! It matters because far too many people die from lung cancer when it can be treated effectively if caught early. I want to make a difference and help raise awareness to save lives.”

The American Lung Association offers several resources for individuals and families that have been impacted by lung cancer. Anyone seeking help can visit LUNGFORCE.org or call the Lung Association’s toll-free Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA for information, resources and support services. Visit Lung.org/lung-cancer for comprehensive education and support developed specifically for lung cancer patients and caregivers.

Registration is open to individuals and teams beginning at $25. For questions about participating, donating, sponsoring, or volunteering at a LUNG FORCE Run/Walk, contact Bethany Webb at Bethany.Webb@Lung.org or 904-520-7123.

The 2019 LUNG FORCE Run/Walk in Jacksonville is sponsored by Florida Blue, Bank of America, Mayo Clinic, Brunet-Garcia, Gate River Run, Alluvion, Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center, Conviva Care Centers, and Alive Credit Union.

###

About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.