Behind every fundraising goal is a story, and behind every story are the people who help make it possible.
In this follow-up conversation, Russell Hill reflects on reaching his fundraising goal for the American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb and the incredible support that helped make it happen. What began as a personal mission to honor his daughter became a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose.
Russell shares the gratitude, emotion, and joy he experienced as friends, Family, supporters, and members of the Western New York community rallied behind his mission. From acts of generosity to words of encouragement, he witnessed firsthand the impact that kindness, connection, and community can have on a person and a cause.
Together, we discuss resilience, the importance of turning pain into purpose, and the ripple effect that occurs when people choose to show up for one another. Russell’s reflections offer a heartfelt reminder that while milestones are worth celebrating, the true impact is often found in the Relationships we build, the lives we touch, and the people who walk alongside us on the journey.
Thank you to everyone who supported the Fight for Air Climb and the American Lung Association’s mission. The funds raised will continue to make a difference for individuals and families throughout Western New York.
Because sometimes the most meaningful victories are not measured by the dollars raised or the goals achieved, but by the people who come together to make them possible.
Links:
Instagram – Russell Hill
Instagram – American Lung Association
Fight for Air Climb: Buffalo Group | Facebook
Emily Carlson is a trailblazing executive, mentor, and international #1 best-selling author in the Healthcare IT and technology consulting industry. With a 30-year career spanning Information Technology, Project Management, and Digital Transformation, Emily has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to drive innovation, optimize healthcare operations, and enhance patient outcomes. She is recognized for her expertise in leading complex IT initiatives, delivering best-in-class solutions, and helping organizations achieve strategic growth through technology-driven transformation.
Beyond her executive leadership, Emily is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion in technology. She is the creator and host of Powered by Authenticity, a podcast on a mission to elevate equity and inclusion for women everywhere. Each episode delivers insightful, inspiring conversations with remarkable individuals who are redefining success on their own terms. The show dives into their stories, shares valuable resources for those ready to start or re-start their professional journeys, and explores the unique challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered along the way. Join us for empowering stories and actionable insights that remind you that your path forward is as bold as you make it.
Emily’s thought leadership extends beyond the microphone—she is a highly sought-after keynote speaker at national and international technology and leadership conferences. Her keynote topics address not only emerging tech trends, digital transformation, and mentorship, but also the broader needs for leaders in every career vertical. She provides valuable insights into adaptive leadership, workplace innovation, and strategies for driving inclusion, engagement, and long-term success across industries. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences and inspire action makes her a transformative voice in leadership conversations.
Among her many accolades, Emily was honored as one of Consulting Magazine’s Top Women Leaders in Technology, Excellence, and Innovation in 2021. In 2022, she was named Mentor of the Year, recognizing her unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting women in technology. She is also an international #1 best-selling author, further solidifying her role as a thought leader and advocate for meaningful change.
When she’s not leading in the tech space, Emily channels her creative innovation into crafting wildly inventive cocktails, extreme charcuterie boards, and outlandish pies. A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, she cherishes every moment spent with her family.
