“Just Breathe” – A Fashion Gala

Fashion designer to donate proceeds in memory of sister

New Haven, CT (December 13, 2011)—

Stairclimb events are innovative, exciting, and are taking the nation by storm. The American Lung Association of New England offers eight such events, and the newest for 2012 is coming to New Haven.

On February 11, participants will take to the 32 floors of 360 State Street, in the heart of downtown New Haven. The building is not only super eco-friendly, it is also the second tallest building in the city. The most exciting part of the event is sure to be the firefighter competition. Firefighters from all over the region will race to the top, dressed in full gear, in the hopes of taking home the trophy.

J. Fitzgerald-Hicks, the building’s concierge by day and fashion designer by night, will be among those who reach the skyline. To raise money for the event, J. is presenting “Just Breathe”, a fashion show that will showcase his brilliant designs. The event will be held at the building on Thursday, December 2, with a silent auction to begin at 6:30. He hopes to bring in $25,000 to benefit the American Lung and Heart Associations.

J. describes his collection, evoli fac’cion, as “1940’s inspired” and “classy with an edge”- perfect for any fashion-forward woman. He cites Grace Kelly and Grace Jones as inspirations for his designs, as well as his mother and sister. Eventually, J. hopes to make fashion design a full-time career.

The mission of the American Lung Association is something that J. is truly passionate about. Sadly, he lost his sister to lung cancer just three years ago. Earlier this year, J. found himself struggling with his own lung health. He came down with pneumonia in both lungs, and became terribly ill. “People need to recognize the importance of breathing because I didn’t and I was hospitalized,” explains J. “People take their lungs for granted.”

Tickets for “Just Breathe”- A Fashion Gala, are on sale now at www.ticketriver.com. To make a donation in support of J. and the American Lung Association, visit www.kickstarter.com. The collection’s lookbook is also featured on the site.

Participants in the stairclimb event are subject to a $35 registration fee and a $100 fundraising minimum. Proceeds from the event fund lung disease research, advocacy, and programs as well as smokefree and clean air initiatives. To register for Scale 360 State Street visit www.climbofyourlife.org.

The American Lung Association of New England is part of the American Lung Association, the oldest voluntary health organization in the U.S. Established in 1904 to combat tuberculosis; our mission today is to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. The focus is on air quality, asthma, tobacco control, and all lung disease. ALANE serves CT, MA, ME, NH, RI and VT.

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