CHICAGO (AP) — U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk is again climbing the stairs of a Chicago skyscraper to raise money for charity and inspire others recovering from health problems.

The Illinois Republican plans to participate in Sunday's "Hustle Up the Hancock" at the John Hancock Center.

Kirk says he'll be joined by members of a support group he formed for people with disabilities or those going through rehabilitation. The group — known as "Kirk's Battle Buddies" — held its first meeting Friday.

Kirk suffered a stroke in 2012 and returned to work in Washington the following year. He's since participated in stair climbs at Chicago's Willis Tower to raise money for the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.

Sunday's event will raise funds for lung disease research.

Kirk is seeking re-election in 2016.

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