“COPD Doesn’t Define Me”: South Florida Firefighter On A Mission To Defeat Lung Disease

Berger, a father of three, is passionate about Lung health and safety because he knows firsthand that every breath is a gift. In 2008, at the age of 32, he was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) from job-related Mold exposure. Thankfully, with the guidance of his healthcare team and medication, his symptoms are well-managed. Berger now serves as a Fire Inspector for Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services.

“I thought I was too young to be diagnosed with COPD,” Berger recounted. “My Pulmonologist told me that Mold infiltration in the Lungs is a way to get COPD, especially for young people. Now my health is really good, and I’m rarely short of breath. I live with this disease, but it doesn’t define me.”

Berger discovered the Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb seven years ago when searching for a new physical challenge. Since then, he has led teams of cadets and EMS students up thousands of stairs to raise funds and awareness for Lung Cancer and all Lung Diseases, including COPD. He dedicates each climb to firefighters who have lost their battle with Lung Disease.

In 2021, Berger deepened his commitment to Lung health by taking on the role of chair for the Miami Climb, which he continues to hold. Last year, he joined the Lung Association’s South Florida Leadership Board, where he also serves as advocacy chair.

“The Lung Association’s mission means so much to me and my family, and I am proud to be a part of this organization,” said Berger. “Participation in the Fight For Air Climb saves lives. You can directly fund research, programs and services for people living with Lung Disease.”

“Peter has been integral to our work to create a future free of Lung Cancer and Lung Disease,” said Hernan Milan, Chair of the Lung Association’s South Florida Leadership Board and First Vice President, Business Liaison Leader at Amerant Bank. “We are immensely grateful for his passion for Lung health and safety, as well as his many years of leadership in the Fight For Air Climb Miami.”

Join Berger and hundreds of participants from across South Florida, including families, friends, first responders and corporate teams, at the 21st Annual Fight For Air Climb Miami. The Miami Climb, presented by Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403, will take place on Sunday, March 9th at loanDepot park—Home of the Miami Marlins. Participants can form a new team, join an existing team or register as an individual climber. Registration is $35, with a $100 fundraising minimum.

Thank you to Metro-Dade Firefighters IAFF Local 1403 for serving as the Presenting Sponsor for the Fight For Air Climb Miami. Thank you to our local sponsors, including Memorial Cancer Institute, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Amerant Bank, Economos Properties, Wilen Group, Alhambra Orchestra, NSU Florida, Vogelzang Law, Northstar Financial Planners and Enterprise Mobility Foundation. Thank you to our national corporate team partner, Kindred Hospitals.

Berger added: “There is no elevator to the cure. So, I’m encouraging our South Florida community to meet us on the stairs.”

For more information, visit: https://ClimbMiami.org