Craig McClure, of Evanston, was one of more than 50 brave participants who stepped over the edge 278 feet above State and Lake Streets on September 8 as part of Skyline Plunge! Chicago. Hosted by Respiratory Health Association, the rappel at theWit Hotel raised more than $67,000 for the association’s local lung disease research and programs.

Although McClure is not personally affected by lung disease, he’s become more connected to the cause as he spread news of his third rappel. Whether it’s a child who has asthma, a person who has COPD or a co-worker whose father was a double-lung-transplant recipient, McClure realized his contributions to Respiratory Health Association will help many people in his life. He participated in Skyline Plunge! Chicago for a third time not just for the thrill, but to make a difference in the fight against lung disease.

“As Chicago’s only urban rappelling adventure, Skyline Plunge! Chicago is a unique event,” said Gina Schwieger, senior director of special events for Respiratory Health Association. “But this event is about more than the experience. More than two thirds of our participants are personally touched by lung diseases such as asthma, lung cancer and COPD. Their stories and commitment to raising awareness and funds to support local lung disease research and programs are truly inspiring.”

Skyline Plunge! will be back in Chicago again on May 5, 2013.  Register, donate or learn more at www.lungchicago.org/skyline-plunge.