SWFL residents take part in ‘Fight for Air’ climb

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Photo via WINK News / Jessica Alpern

FORT MYERS, Fla. Many Southwest Florida residents and first responders went on a climb for a good cause on Saturday morning.

The American Lung Association’s annual event was held at the Oasis Tower One at 300 Oasis Grand Boulevard. Not only did participants climb 31 flights of stairs but they did it dressed in complete firefighting gear.

Each climber raised a minimum of $100 at this years event called Fight for Air Climb. All of the money was donated to lung disease research, education and advocacy.

“Even though it’s one of the top killers of men and women it’s one of the most poorly funded,” American Lung Association spokesperson Kurt Goerke said.

Fort Myers Interim fire chief Vincent DiCristofalo believes the event can make a difference.

“Cancer is a disease that is affecting firefighters across the nation from the job we do.” DiCristofalo said. “Whatever we can do to show support for the organizations that support the efforts to fight cancer that’s what we’re here to do.”

The event also meant a lot for another firefighter who attended the event.

“I had a pulmonary embolism seven months ago and I’ve been recovering physically and mentally from that and I think running this today was like my exclamation that I’m back,” Bonita Springs Firefighter Cesar Sanchez said.

For more information visit the American Lung Association’s website.

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