Cyclist Tackles Amazing Feat To Raise Money For The American Lung Association

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 17 Jun 2009 - 8:00 PDT

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It's not every day one wakes up and decides to ride their bike from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., but if you are Shawne Camp, anything is possible. Camp suffers from an extremely painful and rare lung disease called spontaneous pneumothorax, which can cause a sudden collapse of the lung. After enduring chest tubes, surgery to essentially glue his right lung to his chest wall and countless hours of pulmonary rehabilitation, Shawne has since made a full recovery.

With his reclaimed health, Camp is cycling cross country to raise money and awareness to benefit the American Lung Association's fight for clean air and healthy lungs. Camp will cover more than 3,900 miles and cross through nine states during his nearly 50 day journey. He will have a total elevation gain of over 96,000 feet, which is the equivalent of climbing Mt. Everest 3.4 times if you start at sea level.

"I am doing this solo and trying to do this in the most cost effective and green way I can, so I will be camping most of the time," said Camp. "I will be self-sufficient carrying a tent, small stove, small pot, sleeping bag, camera, phone, journal, a change of clothes, food, water and some spare bike parts."

Camp departed San Francisco on May 2, 2009 and is expected to arrive at the American Lung Association in Washington, DC located at 530 7th Street, SE on Wednesday, June 17, 2009. Shawne's arrival time is still being confirmed, but he is expected to arrive early in the afternoon. A special friend, four-year old Alexander Eller will ride the last 100 meters with Camp on his brand new two-wheel bike. Both cyclists will be greeted by a crowd of well-wishers who will gather for a celebration ceremony following his arrival.

"Shawne's journey is truly an inspiration and a testament to the perseverance of the human spirit," said Rolando A. Andrewn, American Lung Association in Washington, DC President and CEO. "We are truly honored by his dedication to take on such a massive challenge to support the work of the Lung Association."

Washington area residents wanting to show their support for the American Lung Association but aren't up for the challenge of a cross country bike trip are encouraged to participate in the Breathe DC Metro Walk on Saturday, June 27, 2009. This 5K walk commencing on the National Mall at 8:30 AM will raise money to fight lung disease and provide vital programs to those living and working in our nation's capitol. For more information or to register for the Breathe DC Metro walk, please visit: http://www.breathedcmetrowalk.org.

Source
American Lung Association