CANCER SURVIVOR SPOTLIGHTS
We are honored to share the stories of incredible lung cancer survivors who remind us that hope, resilience, and advocacy can emerge from even the most difficult diagnoses. Through our Cancer Survivor Spotlight, we celebrate individuals who are raising awareness, challenging misconceptions, and inspiring change — especially those who were diagnosed despite never smoking.
Each story is a reminder that lung cancer doesn’t have just one face or one cause. We hope you’ll take a moment to read through these journeys — to learn, to feel inspired, and to help us spread awareness. Whether it’s by sharing a story, talking to a loved one, or getting involved, we’re so glad you’re here.
"The Note That Saved My Life" A Lung Cancer Survivor's Story and Advocacy Journey In July 2015, I went to the doctor for something completely unrelated to cancer -- I had shingles. At the time, I hadn't been to a doctor in about 18 months, mostly because I felt great. I was in excellent health: never had the flu, never broke a bone, and my blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar were all perfect. I stayed active and never smoked. Life was good. During the visit, after prescribing treatment for the shingles, my doctor asked if I had any other complaints -- part of the routine Medicare health maintenance checkup. At first, I said no, but then I paused and added, "Well... there is one thing. I sign, and lately I'm unable to hold notes as long as I use to. I can still hit the notes, but I need to take shorter breaths when I'm ding vocal runs. It's probably nothing -- I've been sitting a lot this year working at the computer. I probably just need to exercise my diaphragm more."