Jacksonville Turns Turquoise to End Lung Cancer

Next week, May 9 – May 15, the American Lung Association in Northeast Florida will celebrate LUNG FORCE Turquoise Takeover. 

The LUNG FORCE initiative’s annual Turquoise Takeover unites men and women to raise critical awareness of lung cancer, the nation’s #1 cancer killer. Jacksonville residents are encouraged to get involved by wearing turquoise, posting to social media and getting involved with a local event.   

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a stark reminder of the importance of lung health, especially for those with lung diseases. For many with lung cancer, the burden has become more acute, with the pandemic adding more challenges, such as increased risk of complications from COVID-19 and changes or delays in treatment,” said Bethany Webb, development manager for the Lung Association. “The pandemic also temporarily delayed access to lung cancer screening for many people at high risk. Among diverse communities who have been hardest hit by COVID-19, these difficulties may be even worse. For these reasons and many more, raising awareness and funds for lung health are more important than ever.”

This week, the American Lung Association in Florida announced that this year’s LUNG FORCE Run/Walk will take place at the Haskell Company on Saturday, August 21. For the event, participants will run or walk a 5K along the St. Johns River to help raise awareness and funds to end lung cancer and lung disease. For more information and to register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Jacksonville.   

Every year as a part of Turquoise Takeover, landmarks and buildings across our nation turn turquoise - LUNG FORCE’s signature color - to increase education and provide hope for those living with lung cancer. 

On May 11, the Lung Association is also hosting a free Lung Cancer Patient Virtual Meetup for patients and caregivers. The program is designed for lung cancer patients and caregivers to learn more about the latest trends, resources and research surrounding lung cancer. Those interested can register at Lung.org/patient-meetup.

Those who want to help raise funds and defeat lung cancer can visit LUNGFORCE.org to learn how to get involved.