I am a farm girl from small town Iowa. I have been married for almost 41 years, have two beautiful daughters, and 5 wonderful grandchildren. I enjoy gardening, reading, crafting, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer in early 2020. After needing catheters in my lungs to drain fluid and continuing targeted pills, my cancer has been stable. Then in August of last year, 2025, I had progression. I had 12 small spots on my brain that were found on my yearly brain MRI. I had radiation to eliminate those spots. I also had to change to a different targeted drug. I only take half a dose as the side effects are so harsh. Without funding for continuing research I may not have had a different targeted drug to take.

From the time I was diagnosed I wanted to put the CAN in cancer. I travel with my husband, play with my grandkids, and enjoy the outdoors.

We are planning our 4th annual Glow Golf FUNdraiser for lung cancer research.

I am only able to benefit from my targeted drug because the investment was once made in the research that discovered it. I want that same experience for everyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. I also hope for a continued investment in the treatments I might need if this drug stops working.

This is possible by donors who give to help promote the research for ALK+ lung cancer. All of the money donated to ALK+ goes to research.

We started a glow golf FUNdraiser tournament in 2023 to raise money for lung cancer research. We want to raise money specifically for ALK+ cancer research.

ALK+ lung cancer is rare and occurs is 5% of all lung cancer patients. ALK+ lung cancer is caused by a rearrangement of the ALK gene, but it is not yet known why this rearrangement happens. ALK+ lung cancer is strongly associated with a history of never smoking or light smoking.

Lung Cancer is the most common cancer worldwide as well as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Even though lung cancer is the most common cancer, it receives the least amount of funding and support because people associate it with smoking.

In the last decade, the median survival of 6.8 years is continuing to increase as research discovers improved treatments and better medicines! Please consider donating to help this continue!

Being diagnosed with lung cancer is a life-altering experience, one that moves people to a whirlwind of emotions, uncertainties, and challenges.

Stage IV lung cancer is a truly debilitating diagnosis, both physically and emotionally. Yet here I am, six years later, somewhat stable and living proof that hope, strength and the grace of God can defy expectations.

Each year that passes isn’t merely about surviving but about thriving in the face of a battle that
challenges the body and mind. My being here is a tribute to every obstacle overcome, every prayer answered, and every moment of perseverance.

Having a FUNdraiser is an additional opportunity to gather with loved ones, friends and others to help raise lung cancer awareness and funds for research with laughter, joy and deep gratitude. It’s a moment to look around and be reminded of the people, experiences and hope that have made this journey worthwhile.

I am always reminded that time is precious. I celebrate surviving and living with purpose, faith, and a heart full of gratitude. I reflect on my immense gratitude for modern medicine, the support of my medical team, and the strength I’ve found in my faith. It’s not just about the treatments and stability, it’s about the divine hand guiding me through uncertainty and the prayers that have lifted my spirit. My story is still being written and every year and every good day is truly a gift.