Daughter Honors Mother, Climbs 1,200 Stairs at Progressive Field

Debbie Bailes passed away from lung cancer just weeks after receiving her official diagnosis in February of 2019. Her daughter Angela Bailes created Team Debbie B, which plans to honor Debbie’s memory and raise funds for life-saving research at the American Lung Association’s outdoor Fight For Air Climb on May 2.  

“I never imagined my mom would already be gone by the time that our first LUNG FORCE Walk in June of 2019 took place,” Bailes said. “I decided to proceed with leading a team in her memory and I received phenomenal support that first year.”

After learning that lung cancer is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., Bailes believes more must be done to raise awareness and further funding for the research needed to defeat lung cancer. 

“My hope is that with continued fundraising, advocacy and research, other families won’t have to go through what my mom and I did.” Bailes said.

Since then, Team Debbie B has taken on three Lung Association fundraising events and now looks to take part in Cleveland’s first-ever outdoor Fight For Air Climb.

“While climbing the 58 flights at Key Tower was a daunting task and impressive accomplishment, we’re looking forward to fresh air and a change of scenery at Progressive Field this year!” Bailes said. 

The six-person team has raised over $700 for this year’s event, just shy of 50% for their goal of $1,500. 

The American Lung Association invites individuals, families, groups of friends, corporate teams and first responders to the 2021 Fight For Air Climb at Progressive Field. The organization is also offering a “Climb Your Way” option for those who can’t make it to the physical event.

Masks will be required at the event and social distancing will be practiced. The safety of participants, staff and volunteers is always our number one priority, so we are continually monitoring local conditions that might affect the Climb. Everyone is encouraged to check our Climb website for the most up-to-date information leading up to the event.
Money raised at the Fight For Air Climb will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative, a $25 million investment to address COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics. 

Registration for the Fight For Air Climb is $35 and includes a $100 fundraising minimum. For more information, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/Cleveland