Fundraiser for the American Lung Association

A former Washougal High School valedictorian who loves to spend time outdoors is involved in the American Lung Association’s “Climb for Clean Air” program.

Megan Stump, a 2001 WHS graduate, enjoys hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing and camping. She is hoping to raise $3,000 by June 1, in order for the association to sponsor her summit attempt of 12,276 foot Mount Adams with professional guides in August.

Stump said the program, recently named “Reach the Summit,” encourages individuals to set ambitious physical and fund raising goals, with the proceeds going to the American Lung Association’s mission of saving lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.

She began hiking extensively in 2010 and summited Mount St. Helens, in September.

“In 2011, I traveled to California’s Lassen Peak and Yosemite’s Half Dome and made successful summit attempts,” Stump said. “I hope to climb one major, glaciated peak per year from here on out, and there are many to choose from in the Pacific Northwest.”

Stump said in addition to challenging herself mentally and physically on Mount Adams, she has chosen to climb in honor of her aunt, Karen Del Grosso Hall.

“My Aunt Karen battled lung cancer for nearly a decade before passing away in December 2008, despite never having smoked a cigarette,” she said. “She remained relentlessly positive throughout course after course of treatment. Her attitude and gumption in the face of her illness is something that I keep with me and try to instill into my daily life. Climbing a mountain is just a small part of my Aunt Karen’s legacy.

“Nearly every person has been touched by lung disease,” Stump added. “My grandmother, Virginia Del Grosso of Washougal, also suffered from COPD [chronic obstructive pulmonary disease] in the final years of her life.”

For more information or to make an online donation, , and click on the link bwlow.

What: Chili dog feed

When: Sunday, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Where: The home of Darrel and Bonnie Stump, 4502 Gifford Place, Washougal.

• Donations of $10 per person will be accepted.

• To RSVP, email megz4716@hotmail.com.