Photos courtesy of the American Lung Association

The 2025 Fight For Air Climb in Oakbrook Terrace took place in early March and featured a strong turnout from local suburban fire departments. Participants completed a grueling 30-floor climb in full firefighter gear to support the American Lung Association’s mission to end lung disease. The Elmhurst Fire Department posted the fastest overall team time at 09:17.36, with firefighter Matt Rizzo leading the group at 05:26.83. The Elmhurst team’s rigorous preparation highlights not only the intense fitness standards maintained by firefighters (they completed the climb in full firefighter gear, weighing about 60 pounds at its lightest), but also their continued support for the community in the fight to provide clean air. A recognition ceremony was held at the Elmhurst Fire Department on May 15.