On Sunday, March 2nd, over 340 climbers ascended the 48th floor of the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre to show their support and raise funds for the BC Lung Foundation. With a total of 46 teams participating, including 233 firefighters and 113 non-firefighters, the staircase to the top was filled with enthusiasm and excitement.
“Climb the Wall brings together such an incredible community of supporters to participate in this challenging but rewarding event. We’re grateful to everyone who comes out to climb, celebrate, share their stories, and take action on improving lung health for all British Columbians,” says Christopher Lam, President & CEO at BC Lung.
Lung disease affects 1 in 5 British Columbians, and funds raised through the event support BC Lung’s vital initiatives and projects. This year’s funds will be dedicated towards sending kids with asthma to BC Lung’s Asthma Education camp and providing air quality monitors to communities in need in BC through Carter’s Project.
With 33 different fire departments from across BC in attendance, Climb the Wall has become an annual reunion for firefighters and their families to gather, celebrate, and fundraise for a great cause close to their hearts. “Our Gibsons and District Volunteer Fire Department team took on the Climb the Wall challenge for the BC Lung Foundation because we recognize the critical importance of lung health, especially as firefighters who face respiratory risks in our work. Beyond supporting this important cause, we truly enjoyed the team-building aspect—training, fundraising, and pushing ourselves together made the experience even more meaningful. We had so much fun and were very proud of our community that stepped up to support us in every way!” says Lisa Stiver of Gibsons & District Volunteer Fire Department, whose team was the top fundraiser this year, bringing in an incredible $14,236 to support BC Lung.
Also, among the climbers, was Michael Coss, a traumatic brain injury survivor, who has been participating in the event for the last several years as a part of his recovery. This year, Michael was joined by both his father and son to complete the climb, “Climb the Wall is by far one of the best organized and fun events, and that is why I keep training and returning every year. My son wants to be a firefighter one day and participated in this event for the very 1st time; he was in heaven to see his future profession in action” says Michael. Following their stair climb, participants enjoyed a variety of sports and games and a breakfast buffet to refuel after an impressive accomplishment! This year’s sponsors and community partners include Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Alkiss Water, The Divot Den, Regulate the Responder, Panago Pizza, Alsco, MNP, RBC, and Coach. The event has raised over $112,000 so far and donations will be open until April 2nd. Learn more and donate at climbthewall.ca.
