On Saturday, March 10, the American Lung Association will hold its 10th annual Fight for Air Climb. Best friends Jessica Rothweiler and Amanda Parr have done the climb all nine years.
It started out as a way to stay in shape and over the years shifted to reasons even more personal.
Parr climbs for her grandparents. Jessica climbs for her aunt who has been suffering from COPD for over 10 years and also her father-in-law who passed away in 2017 from mesothelioma.
With every breath climbers take, they are reminded why they tackle all 47 floors.
"My father-in-law, (his death) was from asbestos and he didn't even work in the field so we're not even sure at what point in his life he was exposed to it," Rothweiler said.
Out of tragedy came a reason to climb, and at each landing even more inspiration.
"They have cheerleaders!" Rothweiler exclaimed. "They have kids and they're volunteers and they're cheering you on so you're like yeah, I can do this!"
Rothweiler even recruited her co-workers at Ogden & Company to climb with her.
"We were inspired by her story and not just her dedication but her reason behind it, the value," said Tom Ceparski, Ogden & Company asset manager.
Rothweiler said anyone can do the step challenge. Her friend Amanda will be climbing in a boot because she just had foot surgery. It's proof nothing will stop the two best friends.
"She'll allow me to go up but then I'll probably come down and walk up the rest with her."
The 10th annual Fight for Air Climb is Saturday, March 10th. TODAY'S TMJ4 is a proud partner.
There is still time to sign up or support a team. For more information click here.
