Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - A week from Saturday, folks will climb the stairs of Seneca One Tower to raise money for the American Lung Association. It's the annual Fight for Air Climb.
Kaelyn Gates of the American Lung Association says this is the premier fundraising event for the organization, which gathers about 600 event participants, including 200 firefighters in full gear.
This event was created 14 years ago, and Gates says it has taken off.
"(We) have been implementing it as a nationwide program. Our Buffalo event is the fifth largest in the nation, which is really exciting," says Gates.
Gates while some 200 firefighters will don 50 pounds of gear to make the climb, the event is for all ages and abilities.
"We have folks that just take it on as a fitness opportunity. But it's for all fitness levels. So you could just take it at your own pace, or you can run it," notes Gates.
She says most complete the climb in 10 to 12 minutes.
"Overall, it's a quick little walk. But when you get to the top, you have that second of not being able to catch your breath. And it really brings home our mission," says Gates. "But then you get that runner's high, so it's all worth it at the end."
You can sign up until midnight on Sunday. There is a fundraising minimum of $100.