It is with a heavy heart that I let you know of the passing of Lorraine Tyler, wife of Kirsten, and the Chairperson of Lung Foundation Australia’s Lung Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee.
Lorraine will be remembered first and foremost for her tremendously positive outlook on life, one that was not defined by cancer.
A wicked sense of humour, a love of running, a proud champion of equality and a fierce advocate for a fair go. It was in her advocacy role that she become my friend and constant companion.
We travelled nationally and internationally meeting Ministers, officials, researchers and community members to share her unique lived experience as a woman with breast cancer and later with lung cancer.
We loved doing presentations, media interviews, podcasts and videos together. Lorraine is one of the most authentic presenters I have worked with in my long career. Her ability to speak with conviction about cancer journey and describe the stark differences between her breast and lung cancer treatment left a profound and lasting impression on everyone we spoke to. Lorraine became a much admired and respected member of the LFA team, who encouraged us to be bold and to push the boundaries to change things for the better and we will continue to do so in Lorraine’s memory.
Her passion for screening and early detection to save lives has been noted by Ministers. Many noted meeting Lorraine as a clarion moment in advocacy and a wake up call that lung cancer patients deserve better. Along with so many others the funding of specialist lung cancer nurses and the targeted lung cancer screening program is a part of her legacy.
On behalf of the members of The Lung Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee and the entire Lung Foundation team we celebrate Lorraine and thank her for her tremendous service. Kirsten and her extended families are in our hearts.
Yours sincerely,
Mark Brooke
Chief Executive Officer