Northwestern Medicine ‘Walks the Talk,’ Continues Investment in Community’s Public Health

For the tenth consecutive year, Northwestern Medicine is investing in lung health by sponsoring the American Lung Association’s LUNGFORCE Walk. The event, which is not your everyday walk, steps off in Wheaton’s Cantigny Park on Saturday September 16^th. The family-friendly event marks its 10^th anniversary this year.

“We can’t think of a better organization or event in which to invest in our community,” said Ankit Bharat, MD, chief of thoracic surgery and director of the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute. “We’re proud to partner with the American Lung Association and are excited for the new and exciting features that this year’s Walk will bring to the community. Ultimately, we look forward to help bring the community together to raise awareness and raise money for education and research to save lives. All while having fun and getting some exercise.”

The LUNGFORCE Walk is designed for walkers of all fitness levels and will feature a 5K and 1.5-mile course through Cantigny Park. The family-friendly event will also feature a family health and resource fest including an “ask the expert” tent hosted by Northwestern Medicine. Participants will also find free flu shots, live music, a kids’ zone and much more.

“Our walk is a fantastic event for people to literally step up to help end lung disease,” said Danielle Trojanek, Executive Director of the Lung Association in Greater Chicago. “Funds raised at events like the walk will fund local services, programs, and research throughout Illinois. We are very grateful to Northwestern Medicine for their support and partnership in our effort to support the local community and help save lives.”

More than one million people in Greater Chicago suffer from lung disease and more than 9,000 people across Illinois die from lung disease each year. Funds raised from the event will support the Lung Association’s efforts to improve lung health and prevent lung disease through lifesaving research, education, and advocacy.

Registration for the LUNG FORCE Walk is free. For more information, and to register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Chicago.