Dayton Family Keeps Father’s Memory Alive by Climbing Day Air Ballpark

To climb 1,000 stairs to raise awareness, funding for lifesaving research, April 30

Doug Weimer visited Disney World over 100 times. His favorite ride: “Soarin’ Around the World.” Now, less than three months after his passing due to lung cancer, his family and friends are climbing 1,000 stairs as Team “Soarin’ for Doug,” to honor his life and his all-time favorite ride, in the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb at Day Air Ballpark on April 30.

“Doug was an avid Disney fan. He could tell you the exact spot to stand for Tinkerbell to fly into your hands and thoroughly loved all of life’s adventures. We are honoring his life with the Climb, an adventure he would absolutely love,” said Ashley Humphreys, Weimer’s daughter.

Weimer was diagnosed with interstitial lung disease and lung cancer in 2017. His treatment consisted of radiation, medication to reduce lung secretions like steroids and antibiotics, and numerous medications to treat the side effects of treatment and symptoms of the disease processes. Sadly, he passed away February 7, 2022.
“Doug truly fought for air for such a long time. The least we can do is ‘Fight for Air’ in his honor, so this event is a perfect way to do that and keep his memory alive,” said Humphreys.

“Our team is looking forward to the physical challenge of the Climb in hopes that we can gain a glimpse into the struggle that Doug faced every single day. We are looking forward to the emotional challenge of the Climb to help our hearts continue healing from the loss of one of the most wonderful men to walk this Earth,” she said.

There are seven climbers on Team “Soarin’ for Doug,” and they are currently the third highest fundraising team.

“Our family learned so much about lung health from the Lung Association when Doug was diagnosed. Fundraising for the Climb is a small way for us to say thank you to all of the pulmonary professionals at Ohio State University who treated him,” said Humphreys.

They also feel strongly about raising awareness and funding for the education, advocacy and research that the Lung Association conducts.

“We are passionate about the research, treatment, prevention and support for lung health that the Lung Association provides. If it weren't for the pulmonary professionals that treated Doug with all the evidence-based treatments, we would have lost him much sooner than we did. We are eternally grateful for the time the treatments gave us with him,” she said.

Team “Soarin’ for Doug” will join hundreds of other climbers to take over 950 steps in Day Air Ballpark on Saturday, April 30. The Lung Association is also offering a “Climb Your Way” option for those who can’t attend the event.

For more information about the Dayton Climb, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/Dayton.

For more information, contact:

James A. Martinez
(312) 445-2501
[email protected]

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