LAS VEGAS, On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Las Vegas hosted one of Nevada’s most inspiring community fitness and fundraising events of the year: Scale The STRAT, an annual “Fight for Air Climb” that brought together lung disease survivors, health advocates, athletes, and community members to ascend all 108 floors of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower in support of lung health awareness and research.
The event, sponsored by the American Lung Association in Nevada, drew hundreds of participants from across the state who braved the 1,455-step challenge up one of Las Vegas’s most iconic landmarks. Climbers of all abilities, from seasoned athletes to those personally affected by respiratory illness, joined together to elevate awareness and raise funds for programs focused on lung health education, research, and clean air advocacy.
Raising Awareness, Raising Funds
“Scale The STRAT isn’t just a climb, it’s a symbol of strength and resilience,” said Robin Hager, board chair of the American Lung Association in Nevada and CEO of Kindred Hospitals in Las Vegas, ahead of the event. She emphasized that every participant’s steps go far beyond the physical challenge, helping support vital local services that millions of Nevadans rely on.
Participants were required to register in advance, with a fundraising minimum that directly supports the American Lung Association’s initiatives, including educational outreach, research into lung disease prevention and treatments, and programs for healthier air in Nevada communities. While the event primarily featured individual climbers, many participants also formed teams representing local businesses, health organizations, and advocacy groups, further expanding its community impact.
Community Support and Public Health Impact
Reached through email and social media posts, several Las Vegas residents shared their personal motivations for participating. Some climbers were lung disease survivors themselves; others brought family members to honor loved ones affected by asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory challenges. The shared sense of purpose, coupled with the unique physical challenge of climbing 108 floors, gave the event an emotional resonance that spread beyond traditional fundraising walks or runs.
The STRAT’s cooperation in hosting the climb demonstrates growing local partnerships between Nevada commercial venues and health nonprofits. The hotel and casino donated use of the space and provided support services to ensure a safe and successful event, amplifying its role as a community hub beyond tourism and entertainment.
Why It Matters for Nevada
Nevada has consistently faced significant public health concerns related to air quality and respiratory diseases. Factors such as urban pollution, rural dust, wildfire smoke, and trends in smoking or vaping contribute to ongoing respiratory health challenges for residents across the state. Community events like Scale The STRAT serve dual roles: they raise crucial funds for lung health advocacy but also increase public awareness of lung disease prevention, early detection, and management.
The event’s timing, in late winter, when respiratory illnesses tend to peak, helps highlight public health needs just as seasonal pressures on lungs and airways increase. Lung disease, including asthma and COPD, remains among the leading causes of chronic health issues nationally, and Nevada’s active participation in such community efforts reflects local engagement with broader public health priorities.
Key Takeaways from Scale The STRAT 2026
- Large Community Turnout: Hundreds of participants climbed all 108 floors of The STRAT to support lung health initiatives.
- Fundraising for Research & Programs: Funds raised support lung disease education, research, and community resources throughout Nevada.
- Inclusive & Inspirational: Participants ranged from health advocates to lung disease survivors, strengthening community bonds.
- Public Health Awareness: The event highlighted lung health challenges, especially respiratory disease prevention and advocacy, during a key seasonal period.