Six people wearing matching navy blue "Fight For Air Climb 30" t-shirts and yellow race bibs stand in front of a baseball field inside a large stadium with red seats. The group is posing with some crossing their arms in front of their chests. The sky is clear and blue.
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June 21, 2022

SWMW Law Team Reaches New Heights in Honor of Clients at American Lung Association’s ‘Fight for Air Climb’

SWMW Law attorneys and staff took a trip to Busch Stadium earlier this month, but it wasn’t to watch baseball – it was to participate in the American Lung Association’s (ALA) “Fight for Air Climb” in honor of the firm’s clients.

The ALA’s signature fundraising event, the Fight for Air Climb invited participants to climb the steps of Busch Stadium to benefit the millions of individuals who are literally fighting for air. The firm has financially supported the event for years, but this time, it was important for the team to take their efforts a step further.

“A majority of our clients are affected by lung disease caused by exposure to asbestos,” said Partner Sophie Zavaglia, who spearheaded the firm’s participation in the event. “The inability to breathe is a terrifying and painful experience for the people we represent. It was important for us to have that perspective, honor their struggles, and show our support.”

Zavaglia joined six others in the 1,000-step climb, including Allison Storr, Rachel Dougherty, Member Lauren Williams, Ashley Sawdy, Associate Jonathon Forbes, and Associate Stephanie Gold. Along with support from other firm attorneys and staff, the group was able to raise more than $4,000 for the cause, shattering their goal of $1,000. Their efforts made them the fourth-highest corporate team that participated in terms of fundraising.

Zavaglia said the team is already looking forward to participating next year and hopes other firms and businesses will lace up their shoes and join them.