Q: Who is the American Lung Association® of Washington?
A: The American Lung Association® of Washington is the oldest voluntary health agency in the nation. We began a century ago working for cures for tuberculosis. Now we concentrate on four things: protecting environmental air quality both indoors and out; reducing tobacco use especially among teens; educating people about lung diseases, particularly asthma; and supporting research and education to find cures for lung cancer.

Q: How many people are affected by lung disease?
A: More than 30 million Americans suffer from chronic lung disease, an estimated 630,000 here in Washington state. Asthma alone affects 600,000 residents of Washington, and few know that lung cancer is the most common cancer-related death, taking more lives than breast, colon and prostate cancer combined. But we don't just help people with lung disease. The American Lung Association® of Washington helps everyone who breathes in Washington State.

Q: What is Trek Tri-Island?
A: Tri-Island is a three-day bicycle ride through the Puget Sound area. 2008 will be the 26th anniversary of this signature ride. Participants each raise a minimum of $500 to join the event. We anticipate the 2008 event will raise more than $350,000 to benefit the programs of the American Lung Association®.

Q: What does the American Lung Association® do with the funds raised?
A: At least 79% of the net proceeds from this event fund our programs. These funds enable us to: send more than 170 children with asthma to summer camps where they learn how to manage their disease; fund teen smoking cessation and prevention programs in schools state-wide; provide free in-home air quality assessments; and support research and education to find cures for asthma and lung cancer.

Q: How can I learn more about the American Lung Association® and its events?
A: Call us at 206-441-5100 or toll-free in Washington at 1-800-732-9339. We'd be more than happy to send you information on lung disease and our programs.