Almost one year ago, my life changed forever.
When my chest X-rays were diagnosed as walking pneumonia, I never imagined what would come next. Over several weeks, I underwent multiple rounds of antibiotics, lost more than 20 pounds, and continued to feel worse.
On the Fourth of July, I was admitted to the hospital, and a CT scan revealed the unthinkable—that I had cancer in my lungs, liver, and bones. Shortly afterward, I was diagnosed with ALK-positive lung cancer.
As a pharmacist who has spent my career caring for others, and part of that career at BC Cancer, I never expected to become the patient. The past year has been filled with challenges, uncertainty, and moments of fear, but also immense gratitude. I am deeply thankful for the love and support of my family, friends, and healthcare community, who stood beside me through some of the most difficult days of my life. Thanks to advances in research and targeted therapies, I have been given hope, more time, and the opportunity to continue making memories with the people I love.
Today, I'm turning that gratitude into action.
Throughout the month of June, I will be walking 100 kilometres to raise funds for lung cancer research. Every step is for those living with lung cancer, the families supporting them, and the loved ones we have lost.
Research is the reason I am here today. The targeted treatment that is helping me live with ALK-positive lung cancer exists because of years of research, clinical trials and the generosity of donors who made that work possible.
This July, I will celebrate my one-year cancer-versary of living with ALK+ lung cancer —a milestone that once felt uncertain. My cancer journey is not over but I'm walking in gratitude of my life, to give back, and help fund new treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
June is ALK+ positive Awareness Month. I am raising funds for the #FuelTheCure campaign to help fuel the next frontier in ALK+ positive cancer research.
If you are able, I would be grateful for your support. Whether you donate, share my story, walk with me or cheer me on along the way, you are helping create hope for people like me.
One year ago, I was fighting to breathe. This June, I'm walking 100 kilometres one step at a time, toward a future with hope, better treatments and a cure.
Thank you for your support. ❤️
(Please note donations are in US dollars)
#FuelTheCure #ALKPositive #APAM2026 #LungCancerAwareness