"I will climb that Holy mountain in the early hours of the day, let it drain my sturdy body as it may. I have worked long and hard to weave this magic from my dreams and I will not run from it till I'm laughing from the summit." The Climb - Michael Tomlinson

January/February 1998

Dear Friend:

I'm excited to announce that I have committed to climb Mt. Rainier!!! It's the American Lung Association® of the Northwest's 10th annual Climb for Clean Air led by renowned mountaineer, Lou Whittaker, this July 1998.

In order to achieve this venture I am physically preparing by continuing on with 15 years of high impact aerobics (four times a week), hiking trips to the top of Mt. Si & to Mt. Rainier's Base Camp, Camp Muir, stair climbing, cross country skiing and snow shoeing. But my physical commitment is not enough. I have also promised to raise $3,000 in contributions to support the American Lung Association® of the Northwest. That's where I need your help! Your contribution will help the American Lung Association® of the Northwest's mission to:

Prevent lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and cystic fibrosis. These various forms of lung disease and breathing problems are the third leading cause of death and accounted for 32 percent of infant deaths, making it the number one killer of babies under a year of age.

Be pro-active in the fight against outdoor air pollutants.

Reduce tobacco use, especially among young people, that are responsible for 419,000 deaths in the United States each year. It's a fact that tobacco causes more deaths than cocaine, heroin, alcohol, homicide, suicide, traffic accidents, fires and AIDS, combined.

Your generous and appreciated tax deductible contribution to the American Lung Association® of the Northwest on my behalf will not only assure my place on the Climb for Clean Air Team; most importantly it will help those struggling to breath easier. Please fill out the contribution slip on the reverse side and return it with your contribution to help me meet my first deadline of March 1, 1998.

A confirmation of my summit success will be sent to you!!!

My sincere Thanks!!