American Lung Association in California Welcomes Jeff Wheeler as new Managing Director for San Diego and Imperial Counties

SAN DIEGO (January 20, 2016) – The American Lung Association in California is pleased to welcome Jeff Wheeler as the new Managing Director for San Diego and Imperial Counties. In this role, Wheeler will provide strategic guidance, financial oversight, and fundraising assistance for the organization.

“I have a personal connection to the mission of the American Lung Association,” said Wheeler. “My uncle was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis late in life. Although he had many struggles and setbacks, research funding from the Lung Association gave my uncle the benefit of enhanced treatments and therapies, which increased his quality of life.”

Wheeler has held various leadership positions at health-related and environmental nonprofits, most recently at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as a Region Campaign Director where he oversaw special event fundraising and community engagement in seven western states. Wheeler has also been a long-time business owner in the real estate industry.

“As one of my first orders of business, I am excited to be involved with our LUNG FORCE Expo on Friday, April 22, 2016 in San Diego,” said Wheeler. “The Expo will bring together patients, caregivers and advocates with leading lung health experts to learn about the latest trends, resources and research surrounding lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and other respiratory issues. I encourage everyone to visit LUNGFORCE.ORG/Expo to learn more and to register for this event.”

The American Lung Association in California is the leading health organization dedicated to fighting threats to lung health including lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tobacco smoke and air pollution. The Lung Association recently launched LUNG FORCE, a national movement focused on battling lung cancer in women as well as raising awareness for women’s lung health.

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About the American Lung Association in California
Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy. 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 visit www.lung.org/california.