CHICAGO, IL | May 17, 2022
Anne Bond lost her father to lung cancer almost three years ago. Now, she will climb thousands of steps at Soldier Field to honor her late father at the American Lung Association in Greater Chicago’s Fight For Air Climb, presented by UnitedHealthcare, on June 19th.
“My dad struggled with lung health for several years before he passed,” said Bond. “People often do not understand what smoking does and why people become addicted. It is not an easy thing to quit.”
Bond’s father started smoking when there was not information available about how it affects people’s health. He developed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and slowly transitioned from inhalers to relying on oxygen for most of his life. He found out he had lung cancer in May 2019 and was not able to receive treatment. He passed away six weeks later on July 10, 2019, at 80 years old.
“My dad was a pillar of our community,” said Bond. “He knew everybody and was incredibly kind. He taught me about hard work and caring for others; not just physically, but to really listen to others and to celebrate their triumphs and support them during their difficult moments. It’s something that I now carry with me every day.”
The Bond family has participated in over ten Fight For Air Climb events. Bond began climbing when she was only 15 years old, raising anywhere from $500 to $2,000 every year. She is hoping to raise over $500 with Team Bond at this year’s Climb, which she cannot wait to attend.
“Soldier Field is such a beautiful venue, and the energy is infectious there,” said Bond. “It's amazing to be surrounded by other people who are all working towards the same goal – to help end lung disease.”
Funds raised at the Chicago Climb will support the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung disease through local programs, lifesaving research and advocacy efforts.
“I am passionate about how the Lung Association strives to educate others about their lung health and the options they have if they are diagnosed with lung disease or lung cancer,” Bond said.
For more information about the Climb, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/Chicago.
The Lung Association is committed to the health and safety of its participants and volunteers. The organization will continue to closely monitor public health conditions and CDC guidelines for COVID-19. Everyone is encouraged to check the Climb website for the most updated information leading up to the event.
