On July 12th & 13th I will be participating in the American Lung Association's 15th Annual 'Climb For Clean Air' in loving memory of my grandfather, Fred Murphy, who passed away on April 18th after a long and dedicated battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. My grandpa has inspired me in more ways than I can describe in words. I will just say that for some reason, while he has struggled with lung disease for so many years, I have felt as though I can breathe twice as much and somehow it will be enough for both of us. I also know that he will be looking down on me as I stand on top of the tallest mountain in the state of Washington.

This annual fundraising event for the American Lung Association of Washington is a 2 day summit attempt of 14,411 ft. Mt. Rainier! Last year alone, over $350,000 was raised by just under 100 climbers dedicated to reducing tobacco use, preventing and controlling air pollution, providing education and funding research to make life more comfortable for people with asthma or other lung disease.

Most of us breathe about 2 gallons of air through our lungs in a minute. That's about 3,000 gallons of air, or 20,000 breaths a day! And....if you are like ME, sometimes you may not even notice. But many people do notice....because when you can't breathe, nothing else matters!

I am more than thrilled to be participating in this wonderful event, but as is true with so many things that are really worth doing, this can't be a solo effort! I need your support not only to achieve my goal of raising $5,000 in my grandfathers' name, but also to muster the internal strength I know I will need to meet the physical and emotional challenges that lie ahead. Your donations are 100% tax deductible and will be going to an outstanding cause.

Attempting an endeavor such as this could be somewhat nerve-wracking, but knowing that you're there with me will make it a lot easier. I thank you for offering whatever support you can!!

Simply click donate for more specific information on how you can help.