My name is Julian Fletcher and I live in Bowie, MD. I was diagnosed on March 12, 2019 with Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer with a Her2 mutation.

I’ve been inspired throughout my journey by the gratitude I have for the people in my life. The support system that I have is strong and reliable, beginning with my parents and my sister. My mother is a nurse practitioner and she helps me better understand the medicines I’m taking. Knowing so many people are rooting for me helps me stay strong. My inner inspiration and strength come from my desire to share my story. Throughout this journey, and even before my diagnosis, I’ve been told that I am inspirational and that I tend to have a positive impact on people. I want to continue to inspire and help spread awareness about lung cancer. I have been writing music for 10 years now, and I also like writing short stories. Pre-diagnosis I wondered if I would be a writer, but now I feel as though writing and sharing my story is my purpose which is what inspired me to write ‘I Got My Breath’.

My advice to someone newly diagnosed would be try to keep a positive mindset, while still honoring your real feelings. I’ve cried many times throughout this process, and most times it has helped me heal.