Famous cancer survivor, climber, author and motivational speaker to participate in 5K at historic Red Rocks Park

Denver, CO - Sean Swarner has survived cancer twice, crested the peak of Mount Everest with only partial use of his lungs and has climbed many of the worlds highest mountains to prove his theory that no challenge would ever be too great or peak too high after his battle with cancer.

Swarner and fellow teammates are taking on a new challenge as they prepare to participate in the third annual Kaiser Permanente Run the 'Rocks5K run/walk on October 11, 2009, at Red Rocks Park in Morrison, Colorado.

Swarner was diagnosed with two different types of cancer, once at the age of 13 and again at the age of 16 when he was given fourteen days to live and was even read his last rights. He astounded the medical community when he survived both of these brutal diseases and a medical-induced coma. As he continues to defy the odds and test his personal endurance, he continues sharing his message of healing, hope, and triumph.

This is the first American Lung Association in Colorado event in which Swarner has participated. "I am honored to be working with the American Lung Association in Colorado and participating in the Kaiser Permanente Run the 'Rocks 5K. Having only partial lung function, I can truly say that when you can't breathe, nothing else matters. The programs and services of the American Lung Association in Colorado are without a doubt improving life for every individual," he said.

Curt Huber, executive director for the American Lung Association in Colorado, added, "We are thrilled and honored to have Swarner participate in this one-of-a-kind 5K run/walk. The Kaiser Permanente Run the 'Rocks is a unique lung challenge that offers the opportunity for everyone, including those living with lung disease, asthma, or partial lung function, to physically and mentally apply themselves for a great cause."

The run/walk is the only event of its kind at Red Rocks Park. The Kaiser PermanenteRun the 'Rocks 5K will take place on Oct. 11, 2009 at 9:30 a.m.An anticipated 1,500 Coloradans will walk or run the hilly Red Rocks roads and finish the race by climbing the famous amphitheatre stairs. Throughout the race, participants will enjoy live music from the local bands. Kaiser Permanente is the title sponsor for Run the 'Rocks. Other top sponsors include: Pfizer, Kindred Hospital Denver, Fuze, Jason's Deli, Chipotle, Colorado Athletic Club, Wells Fargo, Clif Bar, Native, Runners Roost, Rudi's Organic Bakery and Red Rocks Fitness. The 5K run/walk fundraiser will support the programs of the American Lung Association of Colorado. To register or for more event information visit www.runtherocks.org.

About The American Lung Association in Colorado

For 100 years, the American Lung Association in Colorado has been the lead organization in Colorado working to prevent lung disease and promote lung health. Lung disease death rates continue to increase while other leading causes of death have declined. The American Lung Association in Colorado funds vital research into the causes of and treatments for lung disease. With the generous support of the public, the American Lung Association of Colorado is " Fighting for air." For more information about the American Lung Association or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or log on to www.lungcolorado.org.

About Kaiser Permanente Colorado

Kaiser Permanente Colorado is the state's largest nonprofit health plan, proudly working to improve the lives and health of Denver, Boulder, and Southern Colorado area residents for nearly 40 years. Kaiser Permanente Colorado provides comprehensive health care services to over 480,000 members through 17 medical offices and a network of affiliated hospitals and physicians. The health plan was recently named "Highest in Member Satisfaction" among Commercial Health Plans by J.D. Power and Associates. In 2007, Kaiser Permanente proudly directed more than $42 million to community benefit programs to improve the health of all Coloradans. For more Kaiser Permanente news, visit kp.org/newscenter.