American Lung Association to Host First-Ever Virtual LUNG FORCE Walk in New Orleans

Today, the American Lung Association announced that the first-ever virtual New Orleans LUNG FORCE Walk will take place from September 7 - 30. Previously, the event was held at Audubon Park, but was re-imagined as an exciting virtual experience to promote social distancing.

For the LUNG FORCE Walk, Louisiana residents are encouraged to head outdoors to one of the many beautiful parks or trails to complete their walk. During September, the Lung Association will offer weekly challenges for participants such as wearing turquoise, walking 1.8 miles and supporting local businesses.

“People who live with lung diseases like asthma, lung cancer, COPD and pulmonary fibrosis are at a high risk for severe complications of COVID-19. For that reason, we are launching our first-ever virtual LUNG FORCE Walk to ensure the safety of all our participants, staff and volunteers,” said Sharon Gwin, development coordinator for the Lung Association. “Because of the global pandemic, it is more important than ever to support lung health.”

Money raised at the Virtual LUNG FORCE Walk will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support he Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative. The COVID-19 Action Initiative is a $25 million investment to address COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics. The initiative works with public and private entities to increase research collaboration and develop new vaccines, detection tests and treatment therapies.

“During this challenging time, it’s important for all those living with lung cancer and lung disease, including COVID-19, to feel hope, optimism, and support,” Gwin added.

Registration for the virtual LUNG FORCE Walk is free, but fundraising is encouraged. Residents can get more information and register at the New Orleans LUNG FORCE Walk website.