Lung Health News, Fall 2007 / Winter 2008
On behalf of those with lung disease who often struggle just to climb a flight of stairs, nearly 500 people climbed 1,197 stairs to enjoy a stunning view and raise funds to help end the suffering caused by breathing problems. The American Lung Association of California’s inaugural Climb California, sponsored by Genentech, was held on March 31 and raised nearly $250,000 for prevention and education programs.
Participants climbed to the 52nd floor of 555 California Street in San Francisco, where the Carnelian Room offered breathtaking views of the city and San Francisco Bay as well as a celebration complete with fabulous food and beverages. Many of the climbers were determined to make it to the top to support friends and family who are living with lung diseases like asthma and lung cancer.
The 29-member Hofer’s Hoofers, a team from Norman S.Wright Mechanical Equipment Inc., climbed in honor of coworker Dave Hofer, who had been recently diagnosed with lung cancer. Team Captain Rich Eberle registered the team just 19 days before the event.The fundraising fever quickly spread throughout the company, which raised nearly $17,000.
It was all worth it when team members reached the Carnelian Room and Hofer was there waiting for them, just 12 days after surgery. Next year, Eberle says, the team will be climbing with their courageous coworker.
GENENTECH EMPLOYEES GET BEHIND CAUSE
Top fundraiser Ken Shitamoto joined Climb California after seeing the “signs” at Genentech where he works. When he sat down at his computer and an announcement for Climb California popped up, he took it as another sign and registered. He decided to climb in honor of his dear friend – a nonsmoker in his 30s – who had recently been diagnosed with lung cancer.
“I’m extreme, an all or nothing kind of person,” Shitamoto says. “Fundraising was much easier than I had expected.”
He sent humorous e-mails to his friends, family and coworkers, urging them to donate. His creative e-mail campaign netted him nearly $10,000 in donations.
“I just thought if my friend can fight lung cancer, I can do this,” he says.
Sean Anderson, who was the second biggest fundraiser, was also on a mission that day. After girlfriend Katie Smith, who works at Genentech, recruited him to climb with the company team, he decided to propose when they reached the top. So at the Carnelian Room, with hundreds of onlookers, Anderson got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. Fortunately, she said yes.
“We set a wedding date for September 1, but I don’t know how I’ll find a place that will top this,”
Shitamoto agrees: “The views were incredible and it was all for a great cause.
