Virtual CowaLUNGa Charity Bike Tour benefits respiratory health issues
The onslaught of COVID-19 has proved detrimental to the elderly and people with underlying health issues.
Most people who get sick with COVID-19 will develop mild to moderate respiratory symptoms.
Those who live with lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer, while not more likely to get the COVID-19 virus, are at greater risk of serious illness if infected.
It is especially important for these groups to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection.
The Respiratory Health Association in Chicago wants to bring more awareness, not only to COVID-19, but to lung diseases in general. To help bring programs to schools and fund researchers, the group is holding its 2020 Virtual CowaLUNGa Charity Bike Tour, culminating with an online celebration Aug. 1. This is the 24th year for this fundraising event.
We spoke with Gina Schwieger, senior director of special events for the Respiratory Health Association, about the upcoming event.
Q: What is the Respiratory Health Association? Give a brief overview of what the organization does and who you serve.
A: At Respiratory Health Association, we believe in a future free of lung disease. A world without lung cancer, asthma or COPD. A world with clean air, where everyone breathes easier.
To achieve that goal, we collaborate with researchers in a relentless pursuit of new treatments and cures. We empower adults and children by teaching them skills to manage their health. We work with lawmakers to craft innovative policies that promote healthy communities, reduce tobacco use, protect our environment and build a more sustainable future.
Join us in our vision for healthy lungs and clean air for all at resphealth.org.
Q: Where do the majority of your donations come from?
A: Individual donors, event fundraising, corporate sponsors/funders, board of directors, and some state and federal grants.
Q: What are some of your programs?
A: Respiratory Health Association provides educational programs for patients, caregivers and medical professionals to share up-to-date information about lung disease treatment options and self-care.
Learning self-management skills is critical for people living with asthma and COPD to ensure a good quality of life and independence. Helping people quit smoking - and teaching kids not to start - will help reduce the incidence of lung cancer.
Knowing how to help a student who has asthma can empower a teacher to save a life.
Current offerings include programming for schools, community organizations, health agencies, businesses and individuals, which can be tailored to meet the needs of your audience. Facilitator trainings may also be available for your staff or volunteers.
Q: Tell us about the CowaLUNGa charity bike ride. How does it work? What are some of the activities associated with it?
A: The 2020 Virtual CowaLUNGa Charity Bike Tour will feature traditional elements the ride is known for - just a little differently.
We encourage each rider to select a distance and route to fit their own schedule, leading up to a virtual celebration day on Aug. 1.
Ride on your own or in small groups - we recommend you continue to practice social distancing and follow local guidance from your public health officials when riding outdoors and with others.
Each rider will receive an event shirt, medal and rider souvenir fanny flag. And, back by popular demand, we will give CowaLUNGa participant trophies to recognize your Cow milestone year! We will also award incentive prizes to those who reach fundraising milestones.
We will continue to ring the COW bell at high points of the ride: starting line, finish line etc. - even virtually.
Register for the CowaLUNGa virtual experience and you can also expect:
• Zoom gatherings with "more COW Bell" leading up to event weekend - including games, special guest speakers (with some surprise appearances) and an opportunity to share time with the Cow community.
• A CowaLUNGa online celebration Aug. 1, time TBD.
• A group page where riders can log their miles.
• Individual coaching from the special events team to help you fundraise for lung health.
• Tools to help you stay informed and make the best of your virtual ride experience, including social media updates, video content and DonorDrive (our online fundraising platform).
Q: How can people participate?
A: Register for $15; fundraising is encouraged, but not required. Register at resphealth.donordrive.com/.
Q: What else would you like readers to know?
A: COVID-19 is a respiratory disease. Visit resphealth.org/covid-19-what-you-should-know/ to learn more.
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2020 Virtual CowaLUNGa Charity Bike Tour
What: Select a distance and route to fit your schedule, leading up to a virtual celebration Aug. 1.
When: CowaLUNGa online celebration Aug. 1, time TBD
Cost: $15; fundraising is encouraged, but not required.
Register: resphealth.donordrive.com/