In 2017, I was the picture of health. On November 3rd of that year, I was shocked to find out I had Stage 4 lung cancer, caused by a genetic mutation (ALK +), that had spread from my lungs to my liver and brain. I have had many treatments, including targeted therapies (Alectinib and Lorlatinib) that worked for a time then were no longer effective. Even chemotherapy (Pemetrexed) combined with Lorlatinib stopped working. I am now blessed to be in the NVL-655 trial at Penn, the hospital where I have been treated throughout my 7 year lung cancer journey. God’s timing is always perfect. 

My ALK+ community has been such a blessing to me over the years, from emotional support to excellent information about ALK+ cancer, including ALK+ specialists to get a second opinion to clinical trials that are available. They are both knowledgeable and caring!

Right now there is no cure for lung cancer once you are stage 4, and unfortunately most people are not diagnosed until they are stage 4. The age at which people are diagnosed with ALK+ lung cancer seems to be getting younger and younger. It breaks my heart to see people in their 20’s and 30’s with young children dying from this terrible disease. 

I’m thankful that I get to celebrate my cancerversary during Lung Cancer Awareness month. This year is my 7th year! Praise God! The research we fund is making great strides, but I want them to be able to find a cure!

Please consider donating money to help us find a cure!