Atlantic Respiratory Services to Sponsor LUNG FORCE Run/Walk at Folly Beach on October 21

The American Lung Association in South Carolina is pleased to announce that Atlantic Respiratory Services has signed on as Presenting Sponsor of the 10th annual LUNG FORCE Run/Walk. The family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, October 21 at the Dunes House in Folly Beach County Park.

“We’re proud to be partnering with the American Lung Association on this fantastic community event to raise awareness and critical funds for lifesaving research, education and outreach – all while having fun and getting some great exercise,” said TJ Thompson, president of Atlantic Respiratory Services and chair of the Lung Association’s South Carolina Leadership Board. “Investment in our community and lung health has been core to our business and values since day one. Our support of the Lung Association is an extension of that commitment.”

The LUNG FORCE Run/Walk is one of the few 5Ks right on the beach. It is designed for all fitness levels and is open to individuals, families and company teams. The festive fundraiser, known for its celebratory and welcoming atmosphere, will feature massage therapy, children’s activities, raffle prizes and more. Gilchrist/Bissell Wealth Management of Raymond James is the Champion of Breath Sponsor.

"Atlantic Respiratory Services has been a key player in providing crucial therapies and equipment to countless patients in the Lowcountry for over thirty years," remarked Margaret Ann Youngs, director of development at the American Lung Association in South Carolina. "We appreciate Atlantic Respiratory Services for their continued partnership as we strive for a future where lung cancer and lung diseases are a thing of the past."

More than 102,000 people in the Charleston area suffer from lung disease, including lung cancer, COPD and asthma. This year alone, more than 4,600 residents of South Carolina are estimated to be diagnosed with lung cancer, and more than 2,600 deaths from lung cancer are predicted.

While lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., there is hope. More Americans than ever are surviving lung cancer. The survival rate has increased by nearly 40 percent in the last decade. Funding research, encouraging lung cancer screening and reducing stigma around the disease is the key to unlocking a future free of lung cancer.

“TJ has been a champion of lung health for years, and we are fortunate to have her serve as our Local Leadership Board Chair to amplify our collective efforts,” Youngs added.

The Charleston LUNG FORCE Run/Walk kicks off at 9 a.m., with an 8 a.m. registration. For more information and to register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Charleston.