It’s time to turn the tide on lung cancer: funding for research can light the way.
Lung cancer has a devastating impact on the lives of thousands of Australians, with one of the lowest survival rates of all cancers. But there is hope. In recent years, advances in new treatments have seen an increase in the survival rate and quality of life for people impacted by the disease – research is providing hope that has never existed before.
Every year our community helps ‘Shine a Light on Lung Cancer’ and raise funds for this life-changing research – collectively raising more than $300,000 over the last few years alone.
To mark Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, we’re encouraging our community to host a fundraiser, and get involved with Shine a Light on Lung Cancer.
This year, Bev White will host her third Shine a Light on Lung Cancer event – something she holds close to her heart. Bev’s son Lachlan was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2012 at just 20 years old.
“Lachlan was told he could never be cured and that the best hope he had was to prolong his survival past the two-year prognosis,” Bev said.
“He underwent numerous treatments, had multiple surgeries and faced many challenges along the way, but despite this he always remained optimistic.”
Bev was determined to do something to help her son, and the thousands of Australians affected by lung cancer.
In 2017, Bev organised her first Shine a Light on Lung Cancer community walk, followed by another in 2018, raising over $5,000.
“I rallied our community of family and friends to come along and join us in our walk – it made me realise we’re not alone,” Bev said.
“Lachlan owes his seven years of survival to medical research. His treatment has included clinical trials and compassionate access to experimental drugs.
“Without funding, none of this research would be possible and he would have no treatment option.”
Lung Foundation Australia’s Senior Manager for Donor Engagement Amy Rymer said scientific breakthroughs can take years to accomplish, but every dollar makes a difference to the lives of people impacted by lung cancer.
“This year we’ve raised the bar with a goal of $110,000 to support research into lung cancer, but we can’t do it without support from our community. We’re here to help every step of the way.”
To find out more or get involved, visit shine a light website.