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Laura lives in Camden, South Carolina, where she loves horseback riding, playing Mahjong, and is opening her very own Mahjong studio. She is a Veteran who receives care through the Veterans Administration (VA) and is an active advocate for lung cancer awareness.

Laura never expected lung cancer to be part of her story. At 38, she was doing everything she was supposed to do. She was keeping up with annual appointments through the VA, staying active, and paying attention to her health. Lung cancer wasn’t even on her radar.  

But looking back, there were signs. She had a lingering cough that began the previous spring, fatigue that she chalked up to stress from work and life, and congestion that allergy medications never seemed to touch. Occasionally, she even coughed up blood. But like many people, especially younger people, she never imagined it could mean lung cancer.

“I was so focused on all the other cancers,” Laura said. “My mom died of colon cancer, so I started getting colonoscopies in my twenties. I kept up with everything they tell you to be aware of related to women’s health. But lung cancer was nowhere on my radar.”  

During a routine visit at the VA in April 2023, Laura mentioned the cough to her doctor, along with wrist pain, exhaustion, and a handful of other symptoms that had slowly become part of everyday life. Because Veterans are diagnosed with lung cancer at higher rates than the general population, her care team ordered a chest X-ray right away.

The chest X-ray appeared to show a small 6-millimeter nodule in her right lung. It was small enough that her care team reassured her it was common in service members. They'd just monitor it with a CT scan to make sure it wasn't growing.

Then the CT results came back. The nodule wasn't 6 millimeters. It was almost 6 centimeters.

Her doctor called her that afternoon. She told Laura she was sorry and that she was going to schedule her with an oncologist right away. Laura didn't even know what to say.

"I'm sorry, ‘oncologist?’ What do you mean? Why do I need an oncologist? Could it be anything else?" she asked.

"Based on the size of [the nodule]," the doctor told her, "No. It's going to be cancer."

The importance of biomarker testing

A few days later, Laura underwent a biopsy through the VA’s partnership with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Her pulmonologist immediately emphasized the importance of comprehensive biomarker testing before starting treatment. It’s a step that Laura now knows was critical.

“They said, ‘We’re going to get a lot of tissue, send it for genetic testing, and wait for those results before deciding on treatment,’” she said. “I was lucky. This is how everybody should be treated.”  

The results confirmed that Laura had stage 4 (IV) ALK-positive lung cancer, a form of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) driven by an ALK biomarker. Although hearing the words “stage 4” was devastating, learning she had a biomarker also meant she had highly targeted treatment options available.

At first, Laura started treatment with alectinib, an ALK-targeted therapy. But while the medication effectively treated her cancer, the side effects became difficult to manage.

Eventually, after struggling with side effects and elevated liver enzymes, Laura transitioned to lorlatinib, another ALK-targeted therapy she says has allowed her to regain much of her quality of life.

“I have energy again,” she said. “It’s so much better.”

Learning to live with uncertainty

Still, adjusting to life with metastatic lung cancer has been about far more than finding the right medication. Laura describes the emotional aftermath of diagnosis as one of the hardest parts of her experience.

“The diagnosis is world-upending,” she said. “First, you think you’re going to die. Then, actually, no. Maybe you’re not going to die right away. And, OK, you’re excited to be doing so well, but now you have to figure out how to live this entirely new way.”  

Over time, Laura has learned that coping doesn’t always mean fixing everything. In fact, some of her biggest lessons have come from letting go of the illusion of control.

“I went a little crazy trying to control everything at first,” she said. “I changed my diet, exercised constantly, and stopped drinking alcohol overnight. I just wanted to do something.”  

“Over time, I had to learn to let go a little, and that I don’t need to solve every bad feeling,” she said. “I control what I can control and let the bad days come when they come. It doesn’t mean it’s forever.”  

That shift in perspective has helped Laura rebuild a life that still feels joyful and meaningful. After her diagnosis, she moved to Camden, South Carolina, where she now spends time horseback riding, playing mahjong, and preparing to open a mahjong studio, a project she enthusiastically describes as her latest obsession.

“When I’m into something, I’m serious about it,” she laughed. “It’s been good to channel that energy from cancer to something more fun.”

Finding community and hope

Laura has also become involved in advocacy through GO2 for Lung Cancer and the ALK Positive community. Attending advocacy events and scientific summits has transformed the way she thinks about the future.

“Every year at the ALK Summit, researchers and doctors show us what they’re working on,” she said. “You realize there are absolutely brilliant people out there who care deeply about helping us live longer.”  

Sharing her story on Capitol Hill during GO2’s Voices Summit has also shown her how much education is still needed around lung cancer.

“I realized legislators and staffers often don’t know anything about lung cancer,” she said. “Sharing my story was an opportunity to teach them about the disease and what is needed to better treat it.”  

Today, Laura hopes her story helps challenge outdated assumptions about who gets lung cancer and what life after diagnosis can look like, especially for younger people, Veterans, and people living with biomarker-driven disease.

Her biggest advice for someone newly diagnosed?

“Take your time,” she said. “You don’t have to figure everything out right now.”  

She also strongly encourages others to find community.

“The biggest help for me was joining a supportive group and talking to people going through the same thing,” Laura said. “You realize you’re not alone, and that’s priceless.”  

“There’s so much more coming”

Three years after her diagnosis, Laura knows life still includes uncertainty, grief, and hard days. But it also includes hope, connection, and plans for the future.

“It’s so empowering to see all the advances happening in research,” she said, “I really believe there’s so much more coming.”  

A lung cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of questions, emotions, and uncertainty. GO2 for Lung Cancer's free HelpLine connects you with trained specialists who can provide support, answer questions, and help you find resources along the way. Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, or navigating survivorship, you don't have to face it alone.

Call us at 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org to learn more.

When Bob Neary passed away from lung cancer in February 2013, his family was left with immense grief. A devoted husband, father, coach, and community member, Bob touched countless lives during his 63 years. Today, more than a decade later, his memory continues to inspire friends and family through Team Bob Neary, an annual community walk that raises awareness and funds for lung cancer research.

Bob’s story is one of resilience, family, and service. He was the youngest of 8 children in a close-knit Irish family. Having lost his mother to kidney disease when he was just 7 years old, Bob understood hardship from an early age. Tragically, lung cancer would later claim both his father and Bob himself at the same age.

After moving to Houston as newlyweds, Bob and his wife Alice built a life centered on family and community. Bob worked as an investment banker at Amegy Bank and spent countless hours coaching his children’s soccer, baseball, softball, and T-ball teams. His commitment to youth sports eventually led him to serve as Commissioner of the Spring Branch Baseball Association, where he helped oversee one of the largest baseball organizations in West Houston.

“He was very involved in our children’s sporting events,” Alice recalls. “He coached their teams for many years and was always there.”

Following Bob’s diagnosis in July 2012 and his passing just 7 months after undergoing radiation and chemotherapy, his family searched for a meaningful way to honor his life.

“I had a longing to do something to keep his memory alive,” Alice said.

After attending a lung cancer walk hosted by the organization that is now GO2 in downtown Houston, an idea began to take shape. The family realized that hosting an event closer to home might make it easier for friends and neighbors to participate. Together, they created what would become Team Bob Neary’s annual community walk.

What began in 2016 as a local gathering has grown into a cherished tradition led by Alice. This year marks the walk’s 10th anniversary. Since its inception, Team Bob Neary has raised more than $32,550 to support GO2 for Lung Cancer’s mission to save lives, increase survivorship, and improve quality of life for those affected by lung cancer.

The event takes place near Terry Hershey Park in Houston’s Energy Corridor, a beautiful park that stretches for miles along the bayou. The location was intentionally chosen to make participation convenient and welcoming.

“Getting into downtown Houston is a hassle,” Alice explains. “If we started the walk at 9 a.m., people would still have most of their Saturday free.”

That simple approach has resonated with supporters year after year. Friends return each November, and family members from across the country have even flown in to take part.

“Having so many of our friends who faithfully come to our walk each year has meant so much to my children and me,” Alice said. “We have had family members fly in for the weekend to attend; it is hard to put into words how grateful we are.”

Typically, around 30 participants gather for the walk. For those unable to complete the route, there is always an invitation to join afterward for breakfast, a tradition that has become one of the event’s most meaningful elements.

After the walk concludes, participants head back to the Neary home to share a meal, reconnect, and celebrate the community that has formed around Bob’s memory.

“I love having everyone back to my house for breakfast,” Alice said. “It’s a way for me to give back and thank everyone for their support.”

The personal touches don’t end there. Participants proudly wear Team Bob Neary T-shirts, often sparking conversations with curious passersby along the trail.

“Every year during the walk, people stop and ask what Team Bob Neary means,” Alice said. “Maybe that small gesture will make someone think about donating or starting something of their own.”

For Bob’s family, the event has become much more than a fundraiser. It has evolved into a powerful source of healing.

While she hadn’t initially viewed the walk as part of her grief journey, looking back, she recognizes the role it has played.

“If by doing the walk every year, raising money and awareness has contributed in some small way to help find a cure for this awful disease, I am not only honoring Bob’s memory but maybe helping someone else and their family not having to go through the pain and suffering of losing a loved one.”

Among Alice’s favorite memories are the years when her daughter and son-in-law returned home after living in Abu Dhabi, UAE, for 8 years, where they welcomed 3 sons. Being able to walk together as a family upon their return to the United States added an extra layer of joy and meaning to the event. Alice is also deeply grateful for the steadfast support of her son and daughter-in-law over the years. She says their love, encouragement, and presence have meant more than words can express and have been an important part of the journey.

Throughout the years, GO2 for Lung Cancer has been a trusted partner in Team Bob Neary’s fundraising efforts.

“GO2 for Lung Cancer has been so supportive over the years,” she says. “They are always there to answer questions or help in any way you can.”

For anyone considering starting a community fundraiser or advocacy effort of their own, she acknowledges that it requires time and dedication. Organizing invitations, tracking donations, coordinating attendees, and sending thank-you notes all take effort.

Yet the rewards far outweigh the work.

“Every year at the end of the walk, I know it was so worth the effort,” Alice said. “Not only is it wonderful to be with devoted friends and family who show up every year, but to feel that you are making a contribution to help end cancer is the best feeling in the world.”

Looking ahead, her hopes remain simple.

“If time and health allow, I hope to continue our annual walk, to raise money and awareness, and to honor Bob for as long as possible.”

Learn more about how you can create your own fundraiser supporting GO2 for Lung Cancer. 

Each year, oncology professionals from around the world gather at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting to explore the latest advances in cancer research and treatment. Our team recently returned from this year’s conference with exciting insights and updates to share.

Updates to precision medicine and targeted therapy

At ASCO 2026, we continued to see advancements made in targeted therapies, including new options for rarer biomarker groups.

• ALK
  Updated data from the CROWN trial underscored long-term progress. The data compared the ALK targeted therapy Lorbrena (lorlatinib) as a first treatment for ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to an earlier generation of ALK targeted therapy, Xalkori (crizotinib). While the trial had previously demonstrated that lorlatinib led to better outcomes, new data showed that even 7 years after the trial started, many patients had still not experienced progression while taking lorlatinib. The median or “middle-ground” benefit of lorlatinib has still not been determined, which could mean a long treatment benefit. This exciting result affirms that with continued research, we are achieving better long-term outcomes than ever before in lung cancer.

• EGFR
  In the WU-KONG 28 trial, we saw promising results from the EGFR Exon 20 targeted therapy Zegfrovy (sunvozertinib) as a first therapy (notable also given that sunvozertinib is a pill and other currently approved EGFR Exon 20 therapies are administered by IV).  

• RET
  The Libretto-432 trial showed that giving the RET targeted therapy Retevmo (selpercatinib) after surgery decreased the chance that the cancer would come back after being removed in people with RET-positive NSCLC. Trials like Libretto-432 serve as a reminder that receiving comprehensive biomarker testing is important for everyone who has lung cancer (regardless of stage) and that we may soon see additional targeted therapy options for early-stage NSCLC, beyond the already approved Tagrisso (osimertinib) (EGFR) and Alecensa (alectinib) (ALK). Data also demonstrated the new RET targeted therapy, lunbotinib, had promising effectiveness and could be an additional option for RET-positive NSCLC.

• ALK
  The LORIN trial showed that giving the ALK-targeted therapy Lorbrena (lorlatinib) before surgery to patients with initially unresectable, early-stage ALK-positive NSCLC led to significant tumor shrinkage. As a result, 75% of participants became eligible for surgical removal of their cancer, highlighting the potential role of targeted therapies in expanding treatment options for patients with early-stage disease.

Immunotherapy innovations

The field of immunotherapy continues evolving in new directions, with several agents advancing in trials and coming closer to entering clinical practice. Two such drugs that were spotlighted at this year's meeting include ivonescimab and pumitamig. These are both bi-specific antibodies that attach to and block PD-1 and VEGF (a special protein that helps blood vessels grow).  

• Invonescimab with chemotherapy
  In the Harmoni-6 trial, invonescimab (with chemotherapy) was compared to a PD-L1 inhibitor called Tevimbra (tislelizumab) (also given with chemo) to see which combination would be a better treatment for people living with squamous cell NSCLC. The ivonescimab group had a 4-month longer period without progression (28 months compared to 24), and people with a positive PD-L1 score (one that is >1%) did better than people with a negative PD-L1 score. This emphasizes the importance of having doctors test the tumor tissue to measure this number.  

• BNT327/BMS-986545 (pumitamig)
  In the RosettaLung-02 trial, people with squamous and non-squamous NSCLC were given this drug in the first line. There was a strong response among both groups, with non-squamous individuals responding 63.6% of the time, and squamous individuals responding 72.7% of the time. For those who did respond, all still showed stable or shrinking disease at 9 months.

• Combination therapies
  The TRITON study showed the benefits of new drug combinations, especially for mutations that are prone to resistance. The study found that a combination of durvalumab Imfinzi (durvalumab), Paraplatin (carboplatin) or Platinol (cisplatin) plus Toposar (etoposide) chemotherapy, and the drug Imjudo (tremelimumab) can provide added benefit when administered in first line NSCLC. This trial found that people who had a STK11, KEAP1, or KRAS mutation were 15% more likely to respond to this combination when compared to the standard of care, chemotherapy plus Keytruda (pembrolizumab), at 48% vs. 33.3%.

Promising research for small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

Researchers continue to work on bridging the gap for people living with SCLC and brought updates on improving both treatment and quality of life.

• SCLC with brain metastasis
  In the DELPHI-304 study of Imdelltra (tarlatamab), people who received it over chemotherapy were more likely to see their brain tumor(s) shrink by 30% or more (56% of people compared to 38%). They also found that a complete response was more likely with Imdelltra (tarlatamab), at 15% compared to 5% for chemotherapy. This offers an additional layer of protection and confidence for the many people with SCLC experiencing brain metastases.  

• Risks and benefits of adding extra treatments
  The TRIPLEX study evaluated whether there was a survival benefit to adding radiation therapy to treatment with chemoimmunotherapy in extensive-stage SCLC. This study found that people given concurrent radiation with their chemotherapy+immunotherapy had higher rates of side effects and mortality when compared to those who were on chemo and immunotherapy alone, but they did not have a longer survival time. Though this study did not find that added radiation was beneficial for these individuals, it teaches us how to optimize cancer care. By balancing the disease control rate of a medication with its side effect profile, we can work to provide care that will be well-tolerated and effective at the same time.

Want to learn more about takeaways and highlights from ASCO 2026? Don’t miss our dedicated Lung Cancer Living Room discussion on Tuesday, July 21. Text "LivingRoom" to 844-871-7558 to receive Living Room text reminders.

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When Misty Shields was 13 years old, her father was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). He was 48. Within 2 years, he was gone.

That loss changed everything for her. While other teenagers were figuring out who they wanted to be, Misty was looking online to find out how to become an oncologist. She had found her purpose, even if it came wrapped in grief.

Today, Misty Shields, MD, PhD, is one of the leading researchers and clinicians working to make SCLC a more treatable disease. She sat down with GO2’s Chief Patient Officer, Danielle Hicks, at a recent Lung Cancer Living Room® to share what’s changing in the world of SCLC and why she believes real hope is finally within reach.

Watch the full Lung Cancer Living Room conversation with Dr. Misty Shields on SCLC below.

A disease that went decades without progress

For most of the last 50 years, the story of SCLC treatment hasn’t changed much. Chemotherapy was the main tool, and it often worked for a little while, but not for long or well enough. Unlike non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which saw a wave of new targeted therapies and immunotherapies reshape outcomes over the past decade, SCLC lagged behind.

That personal history is part of why Dr. Shields pushed into this field. “SCLC has been neglected for a long time,” she said. “That’s not acceptable.”

The treatments that are changing the picture

The first real turning point came in 2018 and 2019, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first immunotherapy drugs for SCLC. Drugs like Tecentriq (atezolizumab) and Imfinzi (durvalumab) work by releasing the brakes on the immune system, helping it recognize and attack cancer cells. They are used alongside or after chemotherapy, depending on the stage of disease, and they are helping some people with SCLC live longer.

Then, in 2025, a new treatment for SCLC was approved by the FDA. Dr. Shields explained that Imdelltra (tarlatamab) is a drug that works in a completely different way. Think of it as a connector. It acts like glue between the immune system’s T-cells and the cancer cells, pulling them together so the immune system can do its job. This approach, called a T-cell engager, is now the standard second-line treatment for extensive-stage (stage 4 (IV)) SCLC. It represents the first major shift in what doctors reach for when cancer stops responding to first-line therapy.

SCLC isn’t one disease anymore

For decades, doctors treated all SCLC the same way. That’s also starting to change. Researchers have discovered that SCLC has distinct subtypes, or different versions of the disease that may behave differently and respond differently to treatment.

This is the same shift that happened in NSCLC years ago, and it opened the door to targeted therapies that dramatically improved outcomes for many people. The hope is that identifying SCLC subtypes will do the same. The work is still in early stages, but the direction is clear: the future of SCLC treatment will likely be more personalized, not one-size-fits-all.

Finding SCLC earlier and understanding it better

SCLC is often caught late, partly because it can grow and spread quickly. Researchers are now looking at new tools that could change that. Liquid biopsies, or blood tests that detect cancer cells or fragments of cells in the bloodstream, may help doctors diagnose SCLC earlier or track how the cancer changes over time. Multi-cancer early detection tests are also being studied to flag cancers such as SCLC before symptoms appear.

For a fast-moving disease like SCLC, finding cancer earlier could dramatically change outcomes.  

Clinical trials: progress requires participation

Every treatment Dr. Shields discussed exists because people with lung cancer agreed to be part of a clinical trial. It’s worth saying that plainly, because trials are still widely misunderstood.

A clinical trial is not a last resort. It often means people gain access to the newest treatments before they are widely available. For people with SCLC, that access can matter enormously, especially because the disease tends to progress quickly.

People with SCLC often face barriers to joining trials, such as strict eligibility requirements, how fast the disease progresses, and the need to act quickly. Researchers know this is a problem. Many are now designing studies with more flexible rules and faster enrollment to make sure more people can participate. More participants mean faster answers, and faster answers mean better treatments for everyone who comes after.

“The nihilism is no longer welcome.”

Dr. Shields closed the conversation with a message she clearly feels deeply: “Never give up hope. The breakthrough might be just right around the corner. This is the new era for small cell lung cancer, and the nihilism is no longer welcome.”

For the 15-year-old who lost her father to this disease, that shift is personal. For the people living with SCLC today, it may be life changing.

If you would like to learn more about SCLC, have questions, or need support, our SCLC program can help. Contact our free HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org.

When we try to characterize small cell lung cancer (SCLC), we typically define it by its stage, either extensive stage or limited stage. We don't often delve further than that; that's about as specific as we'll hear. However, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually 4 unique subtypes of small cell lung cancer, each with its own characteristics. The reason these aren't often discussed, though, is that for a while we weren't certain what this information meant. Yes, there are differences among these 4 types at the cellular level, but what does that really mean for the person living with the disease? In recent years, though, this has begun to change. Scientists have been working to uncover how these small differences can potentially have a great impact on the future of personalized medicine and small cell lung cancer. Here, we'll discuss a little bit about each of these 4 subtypes, and how the treatment landscape may shift to accommodate them in the future.

To differentiate the types of SCLC, we have to look at the different proteins that are inside of the cancer cells. These special proteins can help determine how the genes of the cancer cells express themselves, which in turn can impact how these cells grow, reproduce, and react within the body. By taking a blood sample and looking at the circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to examine these factors, doctors and scientists can see what type of subtype a person's SCLC is.

SCLC Subtype-A

These are SCLC type cancers where there is a high expression in the cells of a factor called ASCL1. This is the most common subtype, found in between 40% and 50% of cases. Some early research shows that this subtype might be more susceptible to a type of drug called BL-2 inhibitors. These drugs work by blocking a protein inside of the cells that can then cause the cell to die. Some research suggests that this sub-type, after treatment with chemotherapy, may convert to sub-type I (discussed lower down).  

SCLC Subtype-N

This subtype means that a person's SCLC cells have a lot of the factor NEUROD1. This factor is important to helping certain specialized cells grow and function within the body, and it is found in high levels in many cases of extensive-stage disease. This subtype is found in about 20% of SCLC cancers. While this subtype can mean the cancer is a bit faster in how it grows and spreads, it is also more sensitive to treatment with a type of drug called Aura-Kinase inhibitors. These are still in trials for SCLC, and we are monitoring the progress of this research for future uses.  

SCLC Subtype-P

Having the subtype of SCLC-P indicates that your cancer has higher levels of the POU2F3 factor. This is a factor used by specialized cells that line the respiratory and digestive systems. In healthy cells, this helps them to recognize foreign bodies and protect against them, but when mutated, it can drive the subtype of SCLC. It's a bit rarer than those described above and is in 12% to 15% of cases. Fortunately, research is beginning to show that this type of SCLC may respond better to a class of experimental drugs called PARP inhibitors. These drugs, though still in trial, have been shown to stop the damaged DNA in cancer cells from replicating, preventing the spread of more cancerous cells.  

SCLC Subtype-I

Finally, our last class of SCLC subtypes is SCLC-I. This stands for inflamed SCLC, and indicates that, rather than having higher levels of certain proteins, the cells have a lot of inflammation occurring, and a high level of immune cells within the environment. Because of this, research has shown that this subtype may have a stronger response to immunotherapy agents than other small cell lung cancers. This is a less common class of SCLC, found in about 10-15% of cases.  

It is important to know that, when looking at how these sub-types may affect a person's prognosis, there was no difference noted in the length of a person's overall and progression free survival. This means that having one subtype over another doesn't seem to have an impact on how long they will live, or how serious their disease might be. As shown above though, it can impact what treatment types may be more effective, and can help oncologists think about which types of treatment they should try first. It can also useful when a person is considering clinical trials that they may want to join.

If you want to learn more about managing small cell lung cancer and what options are available, please reach out to us. GO2’s HelpLine is a free, one-on-one service that connects patients and caregivers with experienced staff who can provide guidance, resources, and, most importantly, hope!  

References:

1. Baine MK, Febres-Aldana CA, Chang JC, Jungbluth AA, Sethi S, Antonescu CR, Travis WD, Hsieh MS, Roh MS, Homer RJ, Ladanyi M, Egger JV, Lai WV, Rudin CM, Rekhtman N. POU2F3 in SCLC: Clinicopathologic and Genomic Analysis With a Focus on Its Diagnostic Utility in Neuroendocrine-Low SCLC. J Thorac Oncol. 2022 Sep;17(9):1109-1121. doi: 10.1016/j.jtho.2022.06.004. Epub 2022 Jun 24. PMID: 35760287; PMCID: PMC9427708.

2. Dahlstrom, Erin. “Advances in Small Cell Lung Cancer Classification.” MD Anderson Cancer Center, 25 Nov. 2024, www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/advances-in-small-cell-lung-cancer-classification.h00-159702279.html.

3. Schwendenwein A, Megyesfalvi Z, Barany N, Valko Z, Bugyik E, Lang C, Ferencz B, Paku S, Lantos A, Fillinger J, Rezeli M, Marko-Varga G, Bogos K, Galffy G, Renyi-Vamos F, Hoda MA, Klepetko W, Hoetzenecker K, Laszlo V, Dome B. Molecular profiles of small cell lung cancer subtypes: therapeutic implications. Mol Ther Oncolytics. 2021 Feb 6;20:470-483. doi: 10.1016/j.omto.2021.02.004. PMID: 33718595; PMCID: PMC7917449.

4. The Asco Post Staff. “Study Identifies Four Unique Subtypes of Small Cell Lung Cancer.” Ascopost.com, 2026, ascopost.com/news/january-2021/study-identifies-four-unique-subtypes-of-small-cell-lung-cancer/. Accessed 30 Apr. 2026.

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Donna Thompson is a 3-time survivor of early-stage, non-small cell lung cancer, thriving more than a decade since her first diagnosis. After 2 surgeries to remove portions of her right lung, she carries forward an experience that deepens her commitment to lung cancer awareness, mental health advocacy, and building supportive communities. Donna shares her story to inspire hope, reduce stigma, and elevate survivor voices. Her advocacy spans education, outreach, and research collaboration within the lung cancer community. She speaks at wellness and community events, using her experience to empower others navigating illness and recovery. Professionally, Donna is the director of Human Resources and a SHRM Certified HR leader, known for leading with empathy and practical insight, and supporting people through complex workplace challenges. She finds strength - literally and emotionally - through faith, fitness training, and time in nature. For her, movement is medicine, and advocacy is a calling rooted in compassion and resilience.

Donna remembers the exact moment everything changed. It was September 2015, and she went to the emergency room for something else entirely. Her blood sugar was dangerously high, and she wasn’t feeling right. They ran tests, monitored her, and sent her home. The next day, the ER doctor called her and said the radiologist saw a mass in her lung and that she should have it checked out right away.  

At 45 years old, and having no smoking history, lung cancer wasn’t on her radar. It wasn’t on anyone else’s either.

“Everyone I talked to was like, ‘You’re too young. You’ve never smoked. This is probably not lung cancer.’”

But within 5 weeks, after scans, a biopsy, and what she still calls “the longest 5 weeks of my life,” Donna had her answer. It was lung cancer after all.  

"The best possible situation”

Looking back, Donna sees the moments that led to her lung cancer diagnosis a little differently.

“I always say that was God getting my attention, whispering to me in the quiet, still moments," she said.

The tumor was stage 2 (II) and operable. In many ways, it was the best-case scenario for a diagnosis no one expected. Her surgical team moved quickly.

“She told me, ‘This is the best possible situation. It’s in a good location. We can take it out.’”

By the end of November, just 2 months after that ER visit, Donna had surgery, and for a moment, it felt like the worst might already be behind her.

When the plan changes

Initially, Donna was told she wouldn’t need chemotherapy. The surgery had been successful, her margins were clean, and everything pointed in the right direction.

Then the pathology report came back. It showed that her tumor was more complex than expected. It was an unusual form of adenocarcinoma that didn’t behave in typical ways. Her case was sent to multiple cancer centers, and the recommendation shifted.

“I remember my surgeon calling me herself,” Donna said. “She said, ‘I told you one thing, and now it’s changing, and I need to explain that to you.’”

A second opinion confirmed it: chemotherapy was recommended. Donna agreed, but her body had other plans.

When treatment becomes the crisis

“Every time I got chemo, I ended up in the ER,” she said. “Something was always going wrong.”

After just two treatments, it was clear that this wasn’t sustainable. Her oncologist made the call.

“He said, ‘Your body can’t handle this. We’re done.’”

It was a moment that carried both relief and uncertainty. The treatment meant to protect her was, instead, putting her in danger. And so, once again, Donna adjusted.

“I didn’t survive to be basic.”

In the months that followed, Donna made a decision that would shape everything that came next.

“I didn’t survive to be basic,” she said.  

Instead, she poured herself into her health and started working with a trainer, changing her diet, and reclaiming a sense of control over her body.

“I got into the best shape of my life,” she said. “I came off medications. My A1C went back to normal. Everything changed.”

But the transformation wasn’t just physical. It was also about identity.

“The cancer gave me more than it took from me,” she said. “I learned who I am, how strong I can be, and what I really need in the world. I learned what and who are important to me. It put such a clear focus on what I want for my life.”  

Finding community and belonging

Still, parts of the experience felt isolating.

“I kept meeting people, and they were all stage 4 (IV),” she said. “I felt like, am I even supposed to be here?”

She was grateful for her outcome, but that gratitude came with a quiet tension.

“I didn’t want to take up space in their groups,” she said. “But I still needed support too.”

And there was something else. “I didn’t see anyone who looked like me.”

It wasn’t until years later, through social media connections, introductions, and small group conversations, that Donna found what she had been missing: a close-knit circle of Black women who truly understood her experience.

“We started meeting regularly, talking, and supporting each other,” she said. “There’s something about being with people who understand you completely without you having to explain that changes everything. They know what they did for me, and what we do for one another. Finally, I had community.”

A second diagnosis, and a different reality

For nearly 7 years, Donna focused on moving forward, rebuilding, and holding onto the belief that she had come through something and grown because of it.

Then, in 2022, everything shifted again. This time, it wasn’t a symptom that sent her back to treatment. It was a scan.

“My scans went from showing nothing to showing a tumor the same size as my first diagnosis,” she said. “I was just so shocked because I wasn’t expecting anything.”

As Donna began to piece together what had happened, the story became even more complicated. The tumor hadn’t appeared overnight. When her new care team reviewed her prior scans, they discovered that the growth had been visible as far back as 2018, but it had been missed.

The radiologist who originally read the scan had not flagged it, and even more concerning, it became clear that her oncologist had never reviewed the images directly.  

“That was the moment for me,” Donna said. “I realized no one had really been looking out for me the way they should have. I felt like a number, and I’m a relationship person. This matters to me.”

It was a turning point, not just medically, but emotionally. What initially felt like a sudden recurrence became something harder to process. It was a missed opportunity for earlier intervention.

Another treatment crisis

This time, Donna’s treatment plan included a targeted therapy designed specifically for EGFR-positive lung cancer that would allow her to take a lower dose of chemo, which they hoped she would tolerate better. It felt like progress and a better path.

But after a second surgery, adjuvant chemo, and introducing the new treatment, her body began to struggle again in a different and even more frightening way, this time in response to the targeted therapy.

After multiple attempts to adjust the dosage, the new medicine ultimately led to kidney failure, a serious complication that forced yet another shift in her care and another redefinition of what “moving forward” would look like.

It was also the moment that changed how Donna understood her own story.

“I used to say that cancer gave me more than it took from me,” she said. “And I believed that until my kidneys failed. Recovering from that took nearly all I had. I’m still trying to fully move on from how traumatic that year was.”

“I also have to remind myself how remarkable it was that I overcame this,” she said. “My nephrologist said my recovery was miraculous, and it does feel like a total miracle now.”

Living in the in-between

Today, Donna is once again in a place that many people with lung cancer know all too well: waiting.  

In July 2025, after recovering from kidney failure, her care team radiated 2 new spots. They chose radiation because it was the gentlest option for her. Recent scans have shown new nodules that Donna and her care team are just watching, for now.  

“They’re watching them and trying to decide what to do next,” she said. “And with my treatment history, not every option feels like a good one.”

It’s not a crisis. But it’s not clarity, either, and Donna finds herself struggling with living in this place of uncertainty.  

“I like to have a plan, and I like to know what we’re going to do. I’m finding it very hard for me to just wait and see.”

Still choosing more

Through her diagnosis, treatment, recurrence, and all the unexpected turns in between, Donna has held onto a simple mindset:

“I didn’t survive to be basic.”

It’s a phrase that stuck with her early on and has continued to shape how she moves through each new chapter. And for Donna, that means continuing to choose a full life, even in the unknown.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with lung cancer, know that you're not alone. Our HelpLine provides free, one-on-one support to people impacted by the disease. Call 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org to connect. Our team is available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ET/6 a.m.-2 p.m. PT.

At the 2026 GO2 for Lung Cancer Voices Summit in Washington, DC, Christine M. Lovly, MD, PhD, FASCO, Division Chief of Thoracic Medical Oncology at City of Hope, shared a powerful message: the future of lung cancer care is being rewritten, and real progress is being made faster than ever before.

In her keynote, “Precision, Progress, Partnerships, and Possibility in Lung Cancer,” Dr. Lovly highlighted how science, advocacy, and collaboration are transforming outcomes for people living with lung cancer. “Every person in this room has a lung cancer story,” she said, recognizing those living with lung cancer, caregivers, advocates, and researchers working together to drive change.

That shared purpose is what continues to move the field forward.

A turning point in lung cancer treatment

Not long ago, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment options were limited. In the early 2000s, people with advanced NSCLC lived an average of about 8 months.

Today, we are in a different era.

Advances in precision medicine, which is treatment that is tailored to the individual person, have transformed NSCLC care. It was once thought that lung cancer was a single disease, but through biomarker testing, we can now identify subtypes of NSCLC. When a person is found to have certain biomarkers such as EGFR, ALK, KRAS, and others, targeted therapies are available. These treatments target specific biomarkers and stop lung cancer from growing and spreading.

The impact is profound. Many people with advanced lung cancer are now living for years with good quality of life and outcomes that once felt out of reach.

But Dr. Lovly emphasized that continued progress depends on ongoing investment in federal research. She expressed concern about how funding reductions and uncertainty at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) could affect the pace and stability of cancer research. When studies are paused or clinical trials are delayed, progress can slow for patients who are waiting for new treatment options. Sustained federal investment in research plays a critical role in supporting clinical trials, which drive continued advances in lung cancer care.

The role of immunotherapy in lung cancer progress

In addition to targeted therapies, immunotherapy has reshaped what’s possible for many people living with lung cancer.

These treatments work by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer. A type of immunotherapy called a checkpoint inhibitor has greatly improved outcomes and has expanded treatment options across lung cancer stages.

Still, Dr. Lovly emphasized that progress cannot be measured by numbers alone.

“Life lived is equally as important,” she said, a reminder that quality of life must remain central to every advance.

At GO2, we know this is what matters most. It means more time, better days, and meaningful moments for people living with lung cancer and their families.

Ongoing challenges in lung cancer care

Despite this progress, too many people are still diagnosed at later stages, when treatment options are more limited.

Dr. Lovly outlined several key challenges that continue to impact outcomes:

• Low lung cancer screening rates, leading to late diagnoses

• Limited access to biomarker testing and expert care

• Health differences based on location and income

• Drug resistance, as cancer cells adapt and survive treatments  

• Gaps in research funding that limit progress

Despite causing more deaths than many other cancers, lung cancer research has historically received less funding. Dr. Lovly highlighted this as a major barrier to continued progress as it requires urgent action from all of us.

The future of lung cancer research

There is also real momentum and reason for hope.

New treatments, including next-generation KRAS inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates, are expanding options for people.

Emerging tools like liquid biopsy are making it easier to detect and monitor cancer through a simple blood test, helping bring precision medicine to more people.

At the same time, AI and new clinical trial designs are helping people access new treatments faster.

The science is moving forward quickly, but as Dr. Lovly made clear, discovery alone isn’t enough.

Impact through advocacy

“Innovation is not our barrier. Implementation is,” Dr. Lovly said.

We already have many of the tools needed to save lives. The challenge is making sure every person with lung cancer, no matter who they are or where they live, can access them.

Where we go from here: More resources, more action

To continue progress, Dr. Lovly emphasized the need for more resources. Top priorities include:

• Expand access to lung cancer screening  

• Increase research funding  

• Improve clinical trial participation  

• Ensuring a variety of people join research studies

• Support research on survivorship

• Strengthen the cancer care workforce  

These priorities reflect where the lung cancer community must focus next and where we can make the greatest impact.

The story is still being written

Dr. Lovly closed with a powerful reminder that reflects the heart of the lung cancer community:

“Every treatment we use today exists because people chose hope over fear and participated in research that helped all of us learn.”

The story of lung cancer is still being written. And as Dr. Lovly emphasized, people with lung cancer and advocates are not simply part of that story. They are helping lead it.

The lung cancer community can continue to make a difference by contacting lawmakers and supporting policies that accelerate research, expand access to care, and improve outcomes. Take action today.

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 27, 2026 — GO2 for Lung Cancer (GO2) is proud to announce Jennifer W. Li, MD, of Johns Hopkins University, as the recipient of the 2026 Conquer Cancer – GO2 for Lung Cancer Young Investigator Award in memory of Debbie Consiglio.

Presented in collaboration with Conquer Cancer®, the ASCO Foundation, the Young Investigator Award (YIA) supports promising early-career physicians during the final years of training as they transition to faculty appointments and pursue innovative clinical oncology research. The mentored award supports physician-scientists conducting research under the guidance of experienced scientific mentors and is designed to help investigators transition from fellowship training into independent academic careers. Applications are accepted from investigators across all areas of cancer research from both the United States and around the world.

Through this one-year grant, Dr. Li will lead a research project titled, “Integrative blood-based proteomic and circulating tumor DNA dynamics for early immunotherapy response and toxicity detection in advanced lung cancer.” Her work aims to improve the ability to predict which patients will benefit from immunotherapy and identify those at risk for serious treatment-related side effects using minimally invasive blood-based testing.

Immunotherapy has transformed treatment for many people living with lung cancer, yet significant challenges remain. While some patients experience durable responses, others do not benefit, and approximately 10–20% develop severe side effects that can significantly impact quality of life. Dr. Li’s research seeks to combine analyses of protein and circulating tumor DNA collected before and during treatment to better understand treatment response and toxicity in real time.

“GO2 is proud to support emerging researchers whose work has the potential to directly improve the lives of people living with lung cancer,” said GO2’s Co-Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Patient Officer Danielle Hicks. “Dr. Li’s research reflects the kind of patient-centered innovation that is urgently needed to help patients and their care teams make more informed treatment decisions, better manage side effects, and ultimately improve outcomes. Through our longstanding collaboration with Conquer Cancer, we remain committed to advancing research that brings more personalized and compassionate care to the lung cancer community.”

Dr. Li is a medical oncology fellow at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, where her research focuses on precision oncology and biomarker development in lung cancer. Her work integrates multi-omic and liquid biopsy approaches to improve the prediction of treatment response, toxicity, and clinical outcomes. She plans to pursue a career as an academic thoracic oncologist.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this award,” said Dr. Li. “This support will help advance our work to better understand why patients respond differently to immunotherapy and why some develop severe side effects. My hope is that this research will contribute to more personalized, safer, and more effective treatment strategies for people living with lung cancer.”

Dr. Li studied biological engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she worked on microfluidic platforms for single-cell analysis to support individualized cancer care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Florida and completed her internal medicine residency at Brown University. Her current research combines molecular profiling, liquid biopsy, and data-driven approaches to advance personalized cancer treatment.

GO2 proudly supports Conquer Cancer’s Grants & Awards Program and the next generation of lung cancer researchers. Through this collaboration, grants have funded innovative studies exploring topics such as radiation response, biomarker detection, and novel treatment strategies. The program reflects GO2’s commitment to encouraging emerging investigators to pursue careers dedicated to improving outcomes for people impacted by lung cancer.

Conquer Cancer will formally recognize this year’s award recipients during the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting.  

The 2026 Conquer Cancer – GO2 for Lung Cancer Young Investigator Award in memory of Debbie Consiglio is supported by Natera.

A diagnosis of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) can bring a wide range of emotions. If you’re feeling uncertain, afraid, or overwhelmed, connecting with others who have faced similar experiences can offer both comfort and strength. Hearing from people who have been living well with SCLC for years is a powerful reminder that your story is still unfolding.

Connection can take many forms, including support groups, one-on-one peer support, or simply reading others’ stories. Each of these forms of connection can help ease feelings of isolation and provide a sense of shared understanding. You are not alone in this. Others are walking this path too, and when asked, here’s what they want you to know.

Take it one step at a time

Focus on today - this appointment, this decision, this moment. Thinking too far ahead can be overwhelming when there is so much unknown in the path ahead. Try to stay in the present and remember that progress isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about continuing forward one step at a time. There will be good days and hard days. Both are part of the process.

Advocate for yourself

Your healthcare team matters, and you are the most important person on that team. Your thoughts, feelings, and perspectives guide your treatment and care decisions. Your healthcare team should listen and respect you. Whether it’s asking questions, exploring clinical trials, or discussing needs, your voice matters.

• Ask questions until you understand your diagnosis and treatment options.  

• Consider getting a second opinion from a thoracic oncologist (lung cancer specialist).  

• If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and consider a change.  

Let people in (even when it’s hard)

Support can make a huge difference, but accepting help isn’t always easy. The offer of help from friends and family is one way they show their love for you. Accepting their help allows them to be with you through this experience and has the power to strengthen relationships and deepen bonds.

Take care of your body and keep moving

Self-care, even on tough days, can help you both physically and mentally. Even small actions matter.

• Spend time in nature

• Go for a walk when you can  

• Eat and hydrate as best you’re able  

• Follow your care team’s guidance  

• Do something you enjoy

Be honest about how you feel and focus on what you can control  

Positivity helps, but it doesn’t mean ignoring fear, frustration, or sadness. It’s okay to feel all of it. What matters is not getting stuck there. Give yourself permission to have hard moments, then try to find your way forward, step by step.

There’s a lot you can’t control with cancer. But there are things you can:

• How you spend your time  

• Who you surround yourself with  

• How you approach decisions  

Some people find strength in learning everything they can. Others focus on daily routines or small goals. There’s no single right way, only what works for you.

Find meaning where you can and hold onto hope

Many people describe a shift in perspective after diagnosis. Time feels different. Priorities become clearer. That means something different for everyone. For you, it could mean:

• Spending more time with loved ones  

• Helping others facing cancer  

• Finding purpose in advocacy or community  

• Setting goals or challenges for yourself and meeting them

Discover what brings you peace, laughter, and enjoyment, and then do more of that.

SCLC is serious. It’s okay to acknowledge that. But hope has a definite place here, not as denial, but as possibility. Treatments are improving. Research is ongoing. And your experience is your own. You don’t have to have everything figured out. You just keep moving forward, one step, one decision, one day at a time.

If you would like to learn more about SCLC, have questions, or need support, our SCLC program can help. Contact our free HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org.

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