Independent Health Joins the American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo as Presenting Sponsor

The American Lung Association announced today Independent Health is joining the annual LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo  as the Presenting Sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to help the Lung Association raise awareness and provide education for participants and the Western New York region on lung disease and lung cancer. The LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo will take place at Buffalo Harbor State Park on Saturday October 1, 2022, from 9:30am-12pm. The Walk will support research, advocacy and education for lung cancer with a fundraising goal of raising $75,000.

“Our LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo aims to bring awareness to lung disease, and honor all those who have experienced lung disease, either personally or through a loved one,” said Kaelyn Gates development director for the American Lung Association in Western New York. “Sponsors like Independent Health empower us to broaden our reach, develop quality education and advocacy programs, and execute a truly fun and rewarding event for our community. We are so grateful to them for playing a part in our mission to save lives by improving lung health.”

Participants joining the LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo in person will complete a 1.5 mile route along the Lake Erie waterfront. The event will also include an impactful opening ceremony where LUNG FORCE Heroes will share their stories, a fitness warm-up, the opportunity to complete a LUNG FORCE Action passport that encourages lung health education, and a celebration after the walk!  Money raised at the LUNG FORCE Walk will fund the Lung Association’s annual research, education and advocacy efforts for lung cancer, chronic lung diseases and COVID-19.
 
“As part of our mission to improve the health and lives of everyone throughout Western New York, Independent Health is proud to support the American Lung Association to help save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research,” said Patricia Clabeaux, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer, Independent Health.  “Join us for The LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo at the Buffalo Harbor State with an array of interactive activities that promote lung-health awareness or ‘Walk Your Way’ in your own neighborhood.  Either is a great way to get out there to benefit an important cause.”

The Lung Association has long-been the trusted champion for lung health. More than 115 years ago, the organization pioneered the model of using education, advocacy and research to virtually eradicate tuberculosis in the U.S. Using these same principles, the Lung Association works to save lives by improving lung health and ending all lung diseases, including COVID-19. 

More information and registration are available at lungforce.org/buffalo

About Independent Health
Independent Health, a not-for-profit health plan headquartered in Buffalo, New York, serves nearly 400,000 members and provides innovative health care products and benefits designed to engage consumers in their health and well-being. Established in 1980, our comprehensive portfolio of progressive products include HMO, POS, PPO and EPO products, Medicare and Medicaid plans, traditional indemnity insurance, individual and small group Exchange products, consumer-directed plans and health savings accounts, plus coverage for self-funded employers. Our subsidiaries and affiliate companies include pharmacy benefit management, specialty pharmacy and the Independent Health Foundation. The company has been recognized nationally for its award winning customer service, dedication to quality health care and unmatched relationships with physicians and providers.  To learn more, go to www.independenthealth.com.