Millions will soon receive Christmas Seals in the mail courtesy of the American Lung Association. The decorative holiday stamps are part of an annual fund-raising tradition dating back to 1907 when the Lung Association led efforts to conquer tuberculosis.

"Most Americans alive today have no vivid memories of how widespread deadly tuberculosis was before the 1950s, but it claimed entire families and struck down people from all walks of life, often in their prime," said Bernadette Toomey, president and CEO of the American Lung Association.

In 1907, tuberculosis sanatoriums were springing up around the country, but most were makeshift and could only care for a few patients at a time. One of these sanatoriums in Delaware, which was in desperate financial straits, was run by a doctor named Joseph Wales, who asked his cousin Emily Bissell for help in raising money to help care for patients.

Emily came up with the idea for the Christmas Seals and the American Lung Association has used this concept for over 100 years.

"While we have a rich history with our Christmas Seals and the fight against tuberculosis, the Lung Association is now waging new battles, including the fight against influenza and the fight for cleaner air," said Toomey.

The American Lung Association is working to prevent lung disease and promote lung health by working with lawmakers to protect the air, by conducting clinical research on lung disease, and teaching children with asthma and their caregivers to understand and manage their illness so they can lead more normal lives.

Each year, thousands quit smoking through American Lung Association sponsored programs, and thousands more people living with lung disease receive needed support through Better Breathers Clubs across the country.

Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic gold medalist and most recent winner of "Dancing With the Stars," is chairman for the 2008 American Lung Association Christmas Seals Campaign.

"I know many families have been affected by the economy, but I hope those who are able to contribute will carry on the Christmas Seals tradition and make a donation to support the American Lung Association," said the athlete.

Visit www.christmasseals.org to learn more about the history of Christmas Seals, to view past or to send a holiday e-card.