The American Lung Association in New York is set to celebrate the ninth year of the LUNG FORCE Walk Hudson Valley, an event that has significantly impacted the local community, survivors, and families. The walk will take place at Manhattanville College on June 15. This year's local medical honoree is Dr. Darren Rohan, Westchester Regional Director of Thoracic Surgery for Northwell Health. Dr. Rohan has been involved with LUNG FORCE since its expansion to the Hudson Valley nine years ago and is a leading voice for lung health in the community.
The LUNG FORCE Walk is a festive and welcoming event that raises crucial funds for lifesaving lung cancer research, early detection initiatives, and awareness campaigns. Participants will walk either a one-mile or two-mile route around the scenic campus. The event receives support from silver sponsor Northwell Health, hero and champion sponsor White Plains Hospital, and mission sponsor Hudson Valley Radon.
The year 2024 marks the tenth anniversary of the Lung Association’s nationwide movement to defeat lung cancer—LUNG FORCE. Through education, advocacy, and research, LUNG FORCE aims to reduce diagnoses and extend the lives of those living with the disease. In 2024, the American Lung Association also celebrates 120 years since its founding in 1904.
"Thanks to all of our amazing volunteers, participants and LUNG FORCE Heroes, we are truly making an impact on lung cancer in New York State. We are so proud that here in the Hudson Valley, the LUNG FORCE Walk has raised over $830,000 to help end lung cancer. Nationally, since 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised more than $30 million for lifesaving lung cancer research, expanding our research commitment by 286%," said Erica Masin, Executive Director of the American Lung Association in metro New York.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths among people in the U.S., with a diagnosis occurring approximately every two minutes. However, there is hope. The survival rate has increased by over 50% in the past decade.
LUNG FORCE Walk events provide an opportunity for friends, family, and company teams to unite in support of individuals with lung disease and lung cancer, while also enjoying some exercise. Participation in a LUNG FORCE Walk supports the American Lung Association's efforts to defeat lung cancer, improve air quality, reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families, and eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases.
The Lung Association encourages people across the country to participate in a LUNG FORCE Walk. To learn more and register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/HudsonValley.
