This summer, third-generation Ballardite Mike Erstad will be climbing the 14,410 of Mount Rainier to raise money for the American Lung Association as part of the 23rd Climb for Clean Air.

For Erstad, an avid backpacker and hiker who scaled Rainier in 2006, lung health is a personal issue worthy of support.

His oldest son suffers from asthma and his grandfather died of lung cancer.

Erstad's goal is to raise $4,000 in pledges for the American Lung Association. The group of about 50 climbers embarking on the Climb for Clean Air in July have an overall goal of $200,000.

The Mount Rainier climb is going to be a treat, Erstad said.

"I'm a Northwest guy, so I love getting outdoors," he said. "When you get out, it's just so beautiful. I can't get over the scenery."

In addition to the views, Erstad will get to spend some time with the Whittaker family, mountaineering legends.

"It's like hanging out for a few days with Michael Jordan for a basketball player," he said.

Lou Whittaker, founder of Rainier Mountaineering, Inc., led the first successful American summit of the North Col of Mount Everest.

His brother Jim was the first American to climb Mount Everest, and his son Peter has led climbs all over the world.

To make a donation toward Erstad's climb or to learn more about the Climb for Clean Air, click here.