Breathe Deep Philadelphia

Breathe Deep Philadelphia is a grassroots event that began in 2007 and has raised $238,000 for lung cancer research, education, and support. In addition to a 2-mile walk and fun run, the event offers a festive atmosphere with live music, refreshments, awards, raffle prizes, and a special lung cancer survivor tribute.

Breathe Deep Coordinator Kara Capasso first became involved with the event when her father, Fred Gontarek, was diagnosed with lung cancer. “I found the walk was coming up in the fall of 2011 and knew we needed to be there for Dad and with Dad. Team Fred started with the motto ‘No One Fights Alone’ to show my dad how many supporters he had and to give him hope during his battle with lung cancer. Fred fought as hard as he could until he passed away on April 28, 2012. The motto was then changed to ‘Never Forget’ since our memories of him and what he meant to us continue to live on. Today, we still walk in his memory as he watches over us. Knowing that I have a part in raising the funds necessary for critical lung cancer research is the most rewarding part of being a Breathe Deep event coordinator. My dad was a man who would do anything for anyone, and I know that if he were here today he would be right by my side helping in any way he could. My focus is keeping his memory alive while hoping to positively change the lives of others.”