American Lung Association to Honor Connecticut’s Lung Health Leaders at LUNG FORCE Walk on June 7, 2025 at Great River Park

Registration is now open for the LUNG FORCE Walk Hartford, the American Lung Association’s signature event bringing the community together to raise funds and awareness for lung cancer research and lung health. The walk will take place on Friday, June 7, 2025, at Great River Park, and this year’s event will also celebrate two exceptional Connecticut lung health leaders.

The Lung Association is proud to recognize Dr. Anil Magge, Director of Interventional Pulmonology at Saint Francis Hospital, Mercy Hospital, and St. Mary’s Hospital as the 2025 Medical Honoree. A lifelong Connecticut resident and pioneer in early detection, Dr. Magge has played a critical role in improving access to lung cancer screening and treatment across the region. Dr. Magge also sits on American Lung Association’s Local Leadership Board in Connecticut.

Also being honored is Eniola Shokunbi, recipient of the inaugural Emerging Lung Health Leader Award. As a dynamic advocate, public health communicator, and essayist, Eniola is elevating lung health conversations in underserved communities and helping to drive awareness through the power of education and equity. Eniola was recently recognized for developing an innovative air filtration system capable of removing cold and COVID viruses from classroom air — a project that has since secured $11.5 million in state funding to expand its use in schools across Connecticut.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., but there is real progress—and real hope,” said Daniel Bowler, Executive Director of the American Lung Association in Connecticut. “Thanks to the commitment of leaders like Dr. Magge and Eniola Shokunbi, more people are getting screened, more lives are being saved, and more communities are being reached. We’re honored to celebrate their work, and we invite everyone in Connecticut to join us on June 7 to take action, raise awareness, and help us continue the fight against lung disease.”

The LUNG FORCE Walk is a celebratory, family-friendly event that supports groundbreaking lung cancer research, early detection programs, and resources for patients and caregivers. Whether you’re walking in support of a loved one, honoring someone you’ve lost, or simply showing your support for healthier lungs and cleaner air, it’s a powerful way to make a difference.

Participants can sign up today at LUNGFORCE.org/Hartford.

Funds raised through the walk directly support the Lung Association’s mission to defeat lung cancer, improve air quality, reduce the burden of lung disease, and eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related illnesses.  The LUNG FORCE Walk Hartford is supported by community sponsors, including KIA of East Hartford, Intuitive, Trinity Health of New England, Lane Valente, Riverside Health & Rehabilitation Center, Jefferson Radiology, UConn Health, Waterbury Pulmonary Associates, Connecticut Lighting Centers, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and Jazz Pharmaceuticals

To learn more or register for the 2025 LUNG FORCE Walk Hartford, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Hartford.

MEDIA MATERIALS AVAILABLE: The following media materials are available for your use:

• Hartford LUNG FORCE Walk photos from 2024
• LUNG FORCE Walk B-Roll