10 Inspiring Stories of Lung Cancer Survivors to Raise Awareness This Lung Cancer Awareness Month
As we approach Lung Cancer Awareness Month, it is essential to remember that lung cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or lifestyle. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women, with an estimated 131,880 deaths expected in 2021. However, there is hope, and that comes in the form of survivors who have battled this disease and come out victorious.
To inspire and raise awareness, here are ten inspiring stories of lung cancer survivors.
1. Bonnie J. Addario
Bonnie J. Addario, a lung cancer survivor herself, is the founder of the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation. Diagnosed in 2004 with stage 3B lung cancer, Addario has dedicated her life to raising awareness of the disease and helping others who are affected by lung cancer.
2. Valerie Harper
Valerie Harper, famous for her role as Rhoda Morgenstern on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009. After receiving treatment and declaring that she had beaten cancer, she was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer in 2013 and lost her battle in 2019.
3. Maureen Fagan
Maureen Fagan was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2018. After undergoing chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation treatment, Fagan was declared cancer-free in 2019.
4. David Freiheit
David Freiheit, also known as YouTuber “VivaFrei,” was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020. He underwent immunotherapy treatment alongside chemotherapy, and as of October 2021, he announced he was cancer-free.
5. Eric Thomas
In 2016, Eric Thomas was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and given six months to live. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment and, as of 2021, is still cancer-free.
6. Liz Dennery Sanders
Liz Dennery Sanders, a branding expert, was diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer in 2017. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor and is now cancer-free.
7. Diane Legg
Diane Legg was diagnosed with stage 1 lung cancer in 2001. After undergoing surgery to remove a portion of her lung, Legg has been cancer-free for over 20 years.
8. Rebecca Johnson
Rebecca Johnson was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2015. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment and is now cancer-free.
9. Carrie Hamilton
Carrie Hamilton, daughter of Carol Burnett, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2001. After undergoing treatment, she went into remission but passed away in 2002 from pneumonia-related complications.
10. Dr. David Tom Cooke
Dr. David Tom Cooke, a specialist in thoracic surgery, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2012. He underwent surgery to remove the tumor and is now cancer-free.
In conclusion, these stories of survival are a testament to the hope and strength that can be found even in the darkest moments. Lung cancer awareness month is an opportunity to educate ourselves about this disease and understand the risks associated with it. Early detection is critical, and if caught early, lung cancer can be highly treatable. Let us take inspiration from these survivors and make it our mission to spread awareness and fight lung cancer together.
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