In Oct of 2019, I was a non-smoking runner. My runs were feeling a bit sluggish, so I went to my doctor. That was a Monday. By Thursday I was diagnosed with terminal non-small cell lung cancer. A runner with lung cancer seemed unlikely, but here I am.  The cause is a mutation called ALK. My treatment, which targets this ALK mutation, had just been FDA-approved the year before. Because of this treatment -- developed by GREAT researchers -- I was able to stabilize the cancer for 3 1/2 years. When my cancer spread a few months ago, research had already produced another treatment, helping me today as I work toward continued stability. I am so grateful for this research, which not only helps ALK-positive lung cancer patients, but other cancer patients as well. Research has prolonged and improved our lives…and I believe a cure is within reach. My hope is that many small monthly donations of $8 will be made toward the "8 to the Greats" fundraiser -- because your donations truly will save lives. We are stronger together! Go research!