17th Annual Take a Breath for Life 5K to Support Lung Cancer Research Returns September 26

Hundreds of walkers from across Western New York are gearing up to put their best foot forward for the American Lung Association in New York’s annual walk to support cancer research. The 17th Annual Take a Breath for Life 5K steps off on Saturday, September 26 at the Hamburg Fairgrounds. The family-friendly event begins at 10:30 a.m. and will raise critical funds to help defeat lung cancer through research, education, and advocacy.

For the past five years, proceeds from the Take a Breath for Life Foundation's annual fundraiser were donated to the American Lung Association in Western New York but this year marks an exciting new chapter as the two organizations formally join forces to create an enhanced partnership that will expand fundraising opportunities and raise awareness about lung health. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in New York and across the nation. Nearly 2.4 million New Yorkers are living with lung disease, and someone is diagnosed with the disease approximately every two minutes.

"We're inviting Western New Yorkers to join us for the Take a Breath for Life 5K to honor and remember those impacted by lung cancer while supporting lifesaving research," said Kaelyn Gates, Executive Director, American Lung Association in Western New York. "Lung cancer remains the number one cancer killer in the United States, yet more people are surviving the disease than ever before thanks to advances in research, early detection and treatment. Together, our community can help bring hope to patients and families while moving us closer to a future free of lung cancer."
 

As part of the new partnership, participant registration will now be managed through the American Lung Association, allowing runners and walkers to create personalized fundraising pages and engage friends and family in support of the cause. Additionally, donations made through the event will be tax-deductible.
 

Runners and walkers of all fitness levels, ages 6 and up, are welcome to participate. For more information and to register, visit takeabreathforlife.lung.org.