Back in 2021, my dad, Albert Schmitz, had been diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis, a lung disease to which there is no known cure. Even though he and our family were devastated with the news, we stayed strong with hopes that advancements would be made and a cure or replacement lungs would become available for him. On July 2nd, 2021, after a long battle with the disease, my father succumbed to it and passed away.

While my family and I will never fully heal from his loss, we find our own ways to remember and pay respect to his name and legacy. That’s why we started the Walk for Albert fundraiser. It’s a way for me and my family to spread his name and what he stood for. He was always the one that would put others' needs before his own and that is why, during this event, I take a step back and try to put others before myself by giving awards and prizes to people that go above and beyond to support this cause and by donating to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation so they can further research this disease.

I keep going back to the saying that you die twice: once when they bury you in the grave and the second time is the last time somebody mentions your name. Walk for Albert is my way of keeping his memory alive. This is for you, Dad, and for all the other families that are living with Pulmonary Fibrosis.

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Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that causes lung tissue to become thickened, stiff, and scarred. The lungs eventually lose their ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream, making everyday activities such as breathing and walking extremely difficult. It is a progressive disease, which means it tends to worsen over time. Every individual diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis has a unique experience with the disease, and there is no “standard” or expected clinical course. With no known cure,  the disease is often fatal within three to five years of diagnosis. Over 250,000 Americans are living with PF today. Approximately 50,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

Because of the work of the PFF, there is hope for those living with PF. Funds raised will support the PFF’s efforts to accelerate research, advance improved care for those living with the disease, and provide unequaled support and education resources for patients, caregivers, family members, and healthcare providers.

But we can't do this without you! Only with your support can we keep the PFF's mission active. Please click the "Donate" button to make your gift today. Thank you in advance for your generous support!

For more information on how your support will make a difference in the lives of PF patients and their families, please visit www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.