Donate
Call the Lung HelpLine
Ask a Question
The following text field filters the results that follow as you type. Use Tab to access the results.
  1. Home
  2. Media
  3. Press Releases
  4. OKC-woman-climbing-2023

OKC Woman Honors Four Family Members Lost to Lung Disease, to Climb Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

Helen Harmon also climbs despite being diagnosed with COPD herself

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK | March 1, 2023

Ever since her husband passed away from stage four lung cancer, Helen Harmon has been involved with the American Lung Association Fight For Air Climb tackling the stairs to help support those who suffer from lung disease. For the last five years Harmon has championed the Lung Association’s mission and is now the Chair of the Oklahoma’s Local Leadership Board.

Despite an active lifestyle, Harmon was diagnosed with COPD, but has been able to manage her disease. “Although my COPD is not reversible, I do know one may choose not to let it stop you from living”, said Harmon.

Participating in the Fight For Air Climb ay Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark allows Harmon to celebrate the lives of family members she lost to lung disease.

“Unfortunately, Larry [her husband] wasn’t the only one in my family to pass from lung cancer. I also lost my mother, aunt and uncle to the disease,” She said. Since the pandemic started, Harmon has also lost her brother-in-law and other friends to COVID-19.  

This year Harmon has eight people registered on her Team Force with four others participating in the climb as well. Harmon’s goal this year is to personally raise $2,000 and for the team to raise $5,000.
“Every stair I take is one step closer to raising funds for patient education, research support and advocacy efforts that will improve the lives of everyone living with lung disease,” said Harmon. “I’m climbing for hope because they’re fighting for breath.”

Harmon will be one of hundreds of people climbing to raise awareness and funds at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark on Saturday, March 25.

She is available for interviews about the climb, and you can contact James Martinez at [email protected] or (312) 445-2501 for requests.

For more information about the Oklahoma City Climb, and to register, visit 
FightForAirClimb.org/OklahomaCity

###

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.

For more information, contact:

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

Fight For Air Climb - Columbus, OH
Columbus, OH | Feb 22, 2025 Fight For Air Climb - Cleveland, OH
Cleveland, OH | Mar 02, 2025
See All Events