The Charleston community is preparing for the 11th annual LUNG FORCE Run/Walk, set to take place on November 9 at Folly Beach County Park. The event coincides with National Lung Cancer Screening Day and aims to raise awareness about lung health. Participants will join the American Lung Association in a unique 5K run or walk along the beach.
TJ Thompson, chair of the Lung Association’s South Carolina Leadership Board and president of Atlantic Respiratory Services, emphasized the importance of early detection in combating lung cancer. "On National Lung Cancer Screening Day, we are uniting as one mighty force for lung health and raising awareness for an important tool in the fight against lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.," he stated.
Sponsored by Gilchrist/Bissell Wealth Management of Raymond James, this event encourages participants to wear turquoise outfits to symbolize hope and unity against lung cancer. Thompson further encouraged community participation: “We’re encouraging the Charleston community to join us to honor the memory of those we’ve lost to lung cancer and lift up those who need our support. Let’s make every step count to save lives!”
The run/walk will start and finish at the Dunes House, offering a timed 5K route for runners. Open to all fitness levels, it welcomes individuals, families, company teams, survivors, caregivers, and even pets. Registration costs $40 with details available at LUNGFORCE.org/Charleston.
Funds raised from this event will support research and initiatives focused on early detection and awareness outreach by the American Lung Association. South Carolina faces higher rates of new lung cancer cases compared to national averages with over 4,700 diagnoses expected this year alone.
Raymond James & Associates clarifies that while they sponsor this event through Gilchrist/Bissell Wealth Management, they do not endorse any opinions or services provided by the American Lung Association.
