On October 24, the American Lung Association in North Carolina held its 9th annual LUNG FORCE Charlotte Turquoise Tasting at Carmel Country Club. The event, attended by 150 guests and presented by AstraZeneca, successfully raised nearly $110,000. These funds are aimed at supporting the organization's mission to combat lung cancer and lung disease through local programs, advocacy efforts, and research initiatives.
Event chair McCay Manwaring expressed gratitude towards participants: “Thank you to all our guests, sponsors, Cabinet and LUNG FORCE Leaders who came together to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by lung cancer and lung disease. The funds we’ve raised will fuel our lifesaving work here in North Carolina and beyond so that we may soon find a cure for lung cancer.”
The evening included recognition of three community leaders for their significant contributions toward advancing the Lung Association's goal of eliminating lung cancer and disease.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. In North Carolina alone, nearly 9,000 individuals are expected to be diagnosed with this disease within the year. Despite these statistics, there is optimism as more Americans are surviving due to advancements in research and treatment alongside increased awareness. Over the past decade, survival rates have risen by 44 percent.
The LUNG FORCE initiative brings together survivors, caregivers, loved ones, and others affected by lung cancer to support one another while advocating for improved lung health. The Turquoise Tasting event also serves as a platform for sharing stories from community members committed to fighting against this illness.
Sponsors contributing to the success of this year's event included AstraZeneca as Turquoise Presenting Sponsor; biodesix as Ruby Sponsor; Pearl Sponsors Providence Anesthesiology Associates; Medtronic; Novant Health; Rankin Wealth Management; Mecklenburg Radiology Associates; and Allen Lund Company. Appreciation was also extended towards the LUNG FORCE Cabinet members: McCay Manwaring, Juleidy Turnipseed, Sarah Neils, Madeline Hughes, Shawna Walker, and Josephine Hauser.
Further information about the event can be found at CharlotteTurquoiseTasting.org.
