Over 150 People Attend Lung Association’s 5th Annual LUNG FORCE Walk

The American Lung Association’s 5th Annual LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo, Presented by Independent Health, turned out over 150 people today at Buffalo Harbor State Park to support research, advocacy and education for lung cancer. To date, participants have raised over $67,000 for this year’s event, with fundraising for the event continuing through October 31, 2022 at Lungforce.org/Buffalo.

“Our LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo raises critical awareness for lung cancer – a disease that impacts so many Western New York families,” said Kaelyn Gates development director for the American Lung Association in Western New York. “The Walk also creates a sense of community for all of those who have experienced lung disease, either personally or through a loved one. The funds raised today by our participants and our sponsors such as Independent Health help the American Lung Association to develop quality education and advocacy programs that will move us one step closer to a world free of lung cancer and lung disease.”

LUNG FORCE Walk Buffalo participants completed a 1.5 mile route along the Lake Erie waterfront. The event also included an opening ceremony where LUNG FORCE Heroes shared their stories, honored loved ones, did a fitness warm-up, and completed LUNG FORCE Action passports that encourage lung health education. Money raised at the LUNG FORCE Walk will fund the Lung Association’s annual research, education and advocacy efforts for lung cancer, chronic lung diseases and COVID-19.

The Lung Association has long-been the trusted champion for lung health. More than 115 years ago, the organization pioneered the model of using education, advocacy and research to virtually eradicate tuberculosis in the U.S. Using these same principles, the Lung Association works to save lives by improving lung health and ending all lung diseases, including COVID-19.

To get more information or to donate visit lungforce.org/buffalo

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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 Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About Independent Health

Independent Health, a not-for-profit health plan headquartered in Buffalo, New York, serves nearly 400,000 members and provides innovative health care products and benefits designed to engage consumers in their health and well-being. Established in 1980, our comprehensive portfolio of progressive products include HMO, POS, PPO and EPO products, Medicare and Medicaid plans, traditional indemnity insurance, individual and small group Exchange products, consumer-directed plans and health savings accounts, plus coverage for self-funded employers. Our subsidiaries and affiliate companies include pharmacy benefit management, specialty pharmacy and the Independent Health Foundation. The company has been recognized nationally for its award winning customer service, dedication to quality health care and unmatched relationships with physicians and providers. To learn more, go to www.independenthealth.com.