A Legacy of Love and Action: Eileen’s 20-Year Journey with GO2

In the fall of 2003, everything changed for Eileen C. After her husband was diagnosed with lung cancer, she found herself searching for answers, support, and connection. That search led her to GO2 for Lung Cancer. 

“GO2 became a lifeline when I needed it most,” Eileen recalls. 

In the years following her husband’s death, Eileen transformed grief into purpose. Driven to raise awareness and challenge lung cancer stigma, she began speaking on local radio and TV, as well as at community events like Shine a Light on Lung Cancer^®. She quickly became not just an advocate, but a changemaker. 

“I believe that greater awareness is essential to securing increased research funding and ultimately reducing mortality,” she says. “These opportunities gave me both a sense of purpose and a way to help drive meaningful change.” 

That passion soon turned into a long-term commitment. As one of GO2’s dedicated Leadership Circle donors, Eileen has supported the organization’s mission for more than 20 years. 

“What inspired me to give and what keeps me committed is the progress I’ve seen since my husband’s death. We’ve come a long way, but there’s still so much more to do.”  

One of the most meaningful impacts she has seen is the widespread acceptance of low-dose CT scans for early detection, which GO2 helped drive through persistent education, awareness, and advocacy.  

“Early detection saves lives. I’m proud to have played even a small part in that effort,” she reflects. 

In 2015, Eileen traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend GO2’s Lung Cancer Voices Summit, where she joined others from across the country to meet with lawmakers and advocate for increased federal funding and critical policy changes. “It was an incredible opportunity to be with the lung cancer community that GO2 has cultivated,” she said. 

For Eileen, giving back is more than a financial contribution. It’s deeply personal. Today, 2 of her close friends are living with lung cancer. Thanks to advances in detection and treatment, they’re doing well. 

“That gives me real hope. I’ve seen firsthand how my support, and the work of GO2, can change outcomes,” she says. “That’s why I continue to give.” 

Her message to others who are considering supporting GO2: The need is urgent, and the difference you can make is real.  

“Lung cancer touches all of us—our family, friends, coworkers. And yet, it remains the leading cause of cancer death while receiving the least federal research funding,” she explains. “I give because I want to help save lives. I hope others will join me.” 

As she marks 2 decades of giving, Eileen continues to honor her husband’s legacy while helping to build a better future for those facing lung cancer today. 

“I truly believe that my support is helping to save lives. My husband would be proud.”