Team Whiskey Pete Takes to the Stairs in Support of the American Lung Association

Danielle Almeida leads stariclimbing team in memory of her father

Boston, MA (December 20, 2011)—

Each February, hundreds of participants race to the top of One Boston Place, in the Mellon Financial Building, to raise money for the American Lung Association. On February 4, Team Whiskey Pete, led by team captain Danielle Almeida, will be among those who reach the top.

Team Whiskey Pete is named for Geoffrey Almeida, who passed away earlier this year from mesothelioma, a rare cancer most commonly attributed to prolonged asbestos exposure. Danielle Almeida, team captain, explains how her father earned his unique nickname. “We were watching TV and this comedian called Whiskey Pete was on. My father thought it was a stupid nickname, especially for someone who looked too young to drink whiskey. From then on, he was known only as Whiskey Pete. Eventually it grew on him, because he had no choice but to accept it.”

“Whiskey Pete” was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2009, right after Thanksgiving. He sought treatment at Dana Farber, in Boston, and underwent surgery to remove one of his lungs. Danielle recalls her father’s recovery being very difficult. The cancer spread to his lymph nodes and Geoffrey lost his battle with the disease less than a year and a half after diagnosis.

Danielle and Team Whiskey Pete, which includes Danielle’s mom, participated in the Peak the Plaza Fight for Air Climb in Providence this February. The team climbed with 10 members, and raised more than $1,700 for the American Lung Association. Due to a scheduling conflict, Danielle opted to tackle the 789 stairs of One Boston Place instead in 2012. She expects to climb with a larger team than last year.

“I don’t intend on having a good time at the stairclimb,” states Danielle. She recalls the burning feeling she felt in her lungs and how hard it was to catch her breath after she finished. “I’m sure that is how my Dad felt every day. Events like these make us grateful that we have healthy lungs and affirms that we should treat them better.”

The Race Up Boston Place stairclimb event hopes to raise $350,000 through the generosity of climbers, donors, and sponsors. It is the largest stairclimb event in New England. All proceeds benefit lung disease research, advocacy and programs as well as smokefree and clean air initiatives in Massachusetts. Climbers are subject to a $35 registration fee and a $100 fundraising minimum. Visit www.climbofyourlife.org for more information.

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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