Contact: James A. Martinez

American Lung Association

O: 312-445-2501 | C:  312-718-5875

E: James.Martinez@Lung.org

MILWAUKEE – Today, the American Lung Association in Wisconsin announced that it will present Children’s Wisconsin with the 2021 Legacy Award for their commitment to public health and their work in identifying that vaping was behind a sudden surge of mysterious lung illnesses across the country.

The recognition will take place during the Association’s annual Oxygen Ball, presented by UnitedHealthcare, on Thursday, April 22. The event, which typically takes place at the Hyatt Regency, was reimagined as an interactive live stream experience.

“It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award on behalf of the Children’s physicians, other care providers and staff who played a critical role in identifying and addressing the very serious impact of vaping on our children and teens,” said Peggy Troy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Wisconsin. “When there is a public health issue that needs to be addressed, our teams drive for the change that is required to help all kids — in this case, kids across the country.”

The vaping epidemic continues to affect millions of our youth across the country.

“We can’t achieve our vision of Wisconsin kids being the healthiest kids in the nation without strong partners like the American Lung Association. Working hand in hand with the Lung Association to support critical education, advocacy and research strengthens our contributions to the health of our community and saves lives,” said Troy.

Other highlights of the event include renowned Milwaukee Judge Derek Mosley sharing his COVID-19 survival story and his efforts to spread vaccination awareness and education among the Black community.

Appropriately themed, “We BeLung at Home,” the fundraiser provides a virtual evening of comfort, cocktails, and camaraderie. All to defeat lung disease. Though there’s no cost to watch the event, there will be plenty of opportunities to donate and fun items to bid on in the auction.

Money raised at the virtual Oxygen Ball will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative. The COVID-19 Action Initiative is a $25 million investment to address COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics. The initiative works with public and private entities to increase research collaboration and develop new vaccines, detection tests and treatment therapies.

More information on the annual virtual Oxygen Ball is available at the event’s website.

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