Pedal away lung disease

Lung disease affects almost 900,000 residents across Massachusetts. With 128,000 asthmatic children, and 288,000 COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) patients just within this state, there is a need for support. The American Lung Association is offering you two ways to become involved in the lung health of Massachusetts. You can help fund asthma education programs, Better Breathers support groups, and help lower the percentage of smokers; and it's as easy as riding a bike. With two very different cycling events this season; the 23rd annual Autumn Escape Bik Trek, and the X State Challenge; Hills 2 the Harbor, you can pedal away lung disease.

On June 23-24 the first-ever X State Challenge ride will be taking off from Williamstown to Gloucester, covering two days, nearly 200 miles and the entire state of Massachusetts. This ride is for the more experienced cyclists looking for a new challenge, and a new way to explore Massachusetts.

The second American Lung Association ride has been around for 23 years, this is the Autumn Escape Bike Trek, which will be happening from Sept. 14-16. This three-day ride is more relaxed and very scenic. Come with friends and create a team to ride together, eat together, and stay at camp together. This ride covers 160 miles in three days, starting out from Plymouth and ending in Provincetown. There is also a two-day option, starting in Sandwich and continuing to Provincetown.

Help make a difference in the lung health of Massachusetts, cover the entire state by bicycle and help make a difference. For more information on both of these cycling events, log onto our website at www.lungma.org or call 781-890-4262. Fundraising is required, see website for details.