Community Corner

Asthmatic Boy Asking Local Cities to Support His 'Fight for Air' Campaign

Carey Poindexter, 14, of Murrieta currently serves as a junior ambassador for the American Lung Association and spearheads Carey's Champions on behalf of the organization.

May marks "Asthma Awareness" month, and Carey Poindexter, 14, of Murrieta asked Wildomar City Council to help him raise awareness.

"Breathing for me ... is a monumental task," he told council members during Wednesday night's city council meeting.

Carey was born with asthma, and he recounted for council members the many surgeries, hospital stays, and medical procedures he's endured throughout his life.

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The home-schooled kid who lives with his mom, Vikita, in Murrieta has, for many years, made rounds throughout the area advocating on behalf of those with asthma. He currently serves as a junior ambassador for the American Lung Association and spearheads Carey's Champions on behalf of the organization.

As part of his ALA responsibilities, he represents the region during fundraising events, including the American Lung Association's Fight for Air Walk in San Diego.

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But Carey said next year he wants to see a walk in his hometown.

"No one should have to fight for air," he said. "My goal is to bring a Fight For Air campaign here."

The council members did not publicly make any promises to Carey, but Vikita said Murrieta council members will soon hear her son's plea, followed by Lake Elsinore.

"We're talking to all of them," she said of Southwest Riverside County cities.

Wildomar Mayor Tim Walker honored Carey for his work, and Councilman Ben Benoit extended an invitation to the teen to attend a South Coast Air Quality Management District meeting.

"I would love to have you join me," said Benoit, who sits on the SCAQMD board.

Not missing a beat, Carey accepted the councilman's offer and managed to get back on point, promoting asthma awareness campaigns currently underway, including a Chili's promo. On every Wednesday through the month of May, Southwest Riverside County restaurant locations will donate 15 percent of sales generated to "Carey's Champions" care of the American Lung Association.

The locations include the Lake Elsinore Chili's on Central Avenue, along with locations in Murrieta, Temecula, and Hemet.


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