Volunteer

Eric Cooper

Years ago, I came to the Lung Association for the Fight For Air climb with (5) of my co-workers. Over the years we grew to a team of over 75 climbers. Through those years, we’ve raised over $85,000 dollars to combat lung disease and now it is my mission to fight for the day when the Lung Association is no longer needed. I continue to participate in the Fight For Air Climb each year, and I am proud to currently serve as Board Chair on the Los Angeles Local Leadership Board. 

The fundraising and all the work that the Lung Association does provides critical research and medicines to help those suffering with lung related illnesses. Imagine if you walked around daily gasping for air or as if you’ve just climbed several flights of stairs. That is what someone suffering from lung disease experiences. We take breathing for granted and it is the Lung Association that is fighting to keep our lungs healthier. At the end of the day if you can’t breathe nothing else matters. 

Rona White

 My name is Rona White and I was diagnosed with Stage 1 lung cancer in 2017 and then again in 2021 yet I continue to beat the odds and remain in the fight. Currently, I'm taking a targeted therapy daily and am looking to to begin a clinical trial. With the diagnosis, I found new purpose to encourage, fight, and fund for a cure because God is not through with me yet. 

The American Lung Association (ALA) granted me the opportunity to advocate for myself and others like me who know a little something about fighting for breath. We spead awareness and fundraise to support those with lung conditions and lung disease. Many of us are thriving despite diagnoses because research has resulted in life supporting therapies. In 2022, I celebrated my birthday at the Fight For Air Climb at the Coliseum. It was also 5 years since my initial diagnosis. The team had the torch lit as my biggest candle ever and they sung happy birthday to me. In 2023, I passed the the baton to the featured speaker and she shared her amazing story. This same year, I was blessed to represent ALA in Washington, DC for Advocacy Day. This journey has made me more passionate about advocating which helps me focus on positive rather than be engulfed with worry. While lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, and the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., the number of fatalities is down 6% since 2018. I'm a walking miracle and am grateful to be among the 6%. I give God all the praise.

Gyzza Ortiz Peralta

Volunteering with the American Lung Association has allowed me to contribute my time and efforts toward important initiatives that significantly impact public health. This includes initiatives like promoting clean air, restricting access to flavored vapes, and increasing research funding for lung diseases. Via my advocacy efforts, I have had a direct influence in shaping legislation that has the potential to greatly improve the health and overall well-being of numerous individuals. 

Working alongside the reputable association, I gained enriching and valuable knowledge in various areas such as developing campaigns, providing media support, and conducting effective leadership through leading groups of volunteers for the historical Fight for Air Climb. The skills I acquired during this time soon allowed me to secure a rewarding internship with their dedicated community. 

In addition to the fulfillment of contributing to a meaningful cause, my involvement has provided me with a more profound comprehension of lung health, opportunities for personal and professional growth through skill-building, and the support of a passionate community that is making monumental strides toward positive change.

Nathan Sudeep

I became an American Lung Association volunteer after witnessing the negative impact that lung disease can have on people and their families. My grandfather struggled with smoking addiction, which led to him developing severe COPD that cost him his life. Although my grandfather wanted to quit, he did not have the proper resources to do so during his lifetime. His struggles inspired me to join the American Lung Association so that I could better support those battling lung disease and smoking addiction.

As a college student, I currently serve as the President of USC’s American Lung Association Collegiate Council (ALACC), and I have acquired various professional and leadership skills through this role. On campus, my council and I have hosted several educational events encouraging USC students to quit smoking and vaping. We have also fundraised thousands of dollars for the “Fight for Air Climb” and “I Wear Turquoise” campaigns, two incredibly important causes supporting lung disease research and advocacy across the nation. The American Lung Association has also helped me grow as an advocate for lung health. By sending letters to representatives and attending LA City Council meetings, I have gotten the opportunity to speak with LA Council members about passing smoke-free housing policies and also ending the sale of flavored tobacco products.

The most valuable aspect of my volunteering experience has to be the vibrant and diverse community the organization brings together. In my three years with the American Lung Association, I have met so many like-minded college students who are passionate about lung health and clean air. I have also had the chance to make meaningful connections with numerous doctors, respiratory therapists, researchers, and activists through the organization’s various events and fundraisers. Ultimately, I am incredibly grateful to be a part of the American Lung Association family and will continue fighting for a world free of lung disease.