Newton Firefighter Climbs for Clean Air

Kyle Esery and colleagues raise funds for lung disease research and advocacy.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:00pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a firefighter's helmet in vibrant neon shades, conceptually representing the physical and community-driven efforts of Newton's first responders to support lung disease research and advocacy.Newton's firefighters climb high to raise funds for lung health, showcasing their commitment to community wellness.Des Moines Today

Newton firefighter and EMT Kyle Esery recently participated in the annual Fight For Air Climb fundraiser in Des Moines, joining other members of the Newton Fire Department to scale the stairs of a high-rise building to raise money for the American Lung Association's efforts to combat lung disease and promote respiratory health.

Why it matters

The Fight For Air Climb is a key annual fundraiser for the American Lung Association, which uses the proceeds to fund research, education, and advocacy around lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. As first responders, Newton's firefighters have a vested interest in supporting lung health initiatives that can improve outcomes for the communities they serve.

The details

Esery and his Newton Fire Department colleagues climbed the 80 floors of the Ruan Center in downtown Des Moines as part of the fundraiser. The event challenges participants to ascend the stairs of a high-rise building, testing their physical fitness while raising critical funds. Proceeds from the climb support the American Lung Association's mission to promote lung health and prevent lung disease through research, education, and advocacy.

  • The Fight For Air Climb took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026 in Des Moines.
  • The Newton Fire Department participates in the annual fundraiser each year.

The players

Kyle Esery

A firefighter and EMT with the Newton Fire Department who participated in the recent Fight For Air Climb fundraiser in Des Moines.

Newton Fire Department

The local fire department in Newton, Iowa that sends a team to participate in the annual Fight For Air Climb fundraiser in Des Moines.

American Lung Association

A national non-profit organization that focuses on lung health research, education, and advocacy, and organizes the annual Fight For Air Climb fundraiser.

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What they’re saying

“As firefighters, we see firsthand the impact of lung disease on the people in our community. That's why we're proud to support the American Lung Association's important work through events like the Fight For Air Climb.”

— Kyle Esery, Firefighter and EMT, Newton Fire Department

What’s next

The Newton Fire Department will continue to participate in the annual Fight For Air Climb fundraiser, helping to raise money and awareness for the American Lung Association's mission.

The takeaway

Newton's firefighters are leading by example, using their physical fitness and community connections to support a worthy cause that can improve lung health and save lives in their local area and beyond.