"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 2010

Dear Friend:

I'm excited to announce that I have committed to climb Mt. Rainier! It's the American Lung Association® in Washington's 23rd annual Climb for Clean Air led by renowned mountaineer, Lou Whittaker, this July 2010.

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 $3,500 in contributions to support the American Lung Association® in Washington. That's where I need your help! Your contribution will help the American Lung Association® in  Washington's to:

Prevent lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and cystic fibrosis. Lung disease is the third leading cause of death by disease in the U.S.

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

Reduce tobacco use, especially among young people, that is responsible for one in five 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® in Washington on my behalf will not only assure my place on the Climb for Clean Air team, but most importantly it will help the over one million children and adults in Washington who struggle to breathe each day. 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, 2010.

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

My sincere Thanks!