Indianapolis Man Raises Funds To Address Lung Cancer Disparities

 The systemic issues that have created lung cancer disparities for minorities makes Adam Ritter want to do more to help underserved populations. That’s why he will take over 2,000 steps with his family and colleagues for the American Lung Association in Indiana’s Fight For Air Climb, presented by Anthem, at Lucas Oil Stadium on Mother’s Day, May 8th.

“Sadly, many systemic issues have contributed to health disparities, including for those facing lung cancer,” said Ritter. “In fact, people of color who are diagnosed with lung cancer face worse outcomes compared to white Americans as they are less likely to be diagnosed early, less likely to receive surgical treatment, and more likely to receive no treatment.”

Ritter leads Team Lilly, which is one of the top fundraising teams. Team Lilly’s fundraising goal is to raise over $5,000. He is participating in his first Climb this year and is dedicating his climb to his late grandparents who both died from lung cancer.

“When I was a child and young adult, I lost both of my maternal grandparents to lung cancer,” said Ritter. “Given my personal history with lung cancer, I am very passionate about finding solutions to end and cure this devastating disease.”

In high school, Ritter’s grandfather was diagnosed with lung cancer just before Christmas. He underwent aggressive chemotherapy treatments which had many side effects that made his remaining months a struggle. The Ritter family were able to cherish one last Christmas together before the cancer quickly took the life of Ritter’s grandfather. Just a few years later, Ritter’s grandmother was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away shortly after.

“Any amount of money to support this cause can make an impact, so we are just focusing on people like my grandparents and how we can help them live longer, healthier lives,” said Ritter.

Ritter is currently marketing director of oncology at Eli Lilly and Company, and Local Leadership Board member at the Lung Association.

Funds raised at the Indianapolis Climb will support the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease as well as contribute to the organization’s COVID-19 Action Initiative, a $25 million investment to address COVID-19.

For more information about the Climb, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/Indianapolis.

Participants’ safety is always the Lung Association’s number one priority so the organization is continually monitoring local COVID-19 conditions that might affect the event. Please check the Climb website for the most up-to-date information.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.