The American Lung Association, in Boston, is challenging local residents to go big this year and register for the Fight For Air Climb on March 28, at One Boston Place. Friends, family and colleagues will come together in honor of loved ones living with lung diseases, such as asthma and lung cancer, to raise funds for clean air and lung disease research, education and advocacy.  Hundreds of American Lung Association supporters will scale more than 41 floors—that’s 789 steps—up to the top of One Boston Place.

         “Far too many residents in Massachusetts struggle to breathe on a daily basis,” says Karen Whitefield, executive director of the American Lung Association, in Massachusetts. “The Fight For Air Climb is not an easy event, but it’s a fulfilling one when you can help those who are living with a lung disease breathe a bit easier.” 

Local firefighters from more than 60 departments will be showing their support at the end of the event by climbing the 41 floors in full firefighter gear—helmet, hood, pants, coat, gloves, boots and air pack—weighing more than 45 pounds. Firefighters have an increased risk for lung disease from the exposure to gases, chemicals and smoke in the line of duty. 

Cost: Climb registration is $35 per participant and includes a $100 fundraising minimum. Location: 201 Washington St., Boston. For more information or to register, call 781-314-9005, email [email protected] or visit BostonClimb.org.