News - Page 9 of 42 - Lung Cancer Research Foundation
Enter your search term above.
Link back to homepage
Link back to homepage

News

Foundation awards grants in four research areas

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, diciembre 14, 2023

The Lung Cancer Research Foundation® (LCRF) is pleased to announce the awardees of its 2023 Scientific Grant Program. This years’ grant cycle includes awards in the following areas:

LCRF Leading Edge Grant in Lung Cancer, LCRF Research Grant on Early Detection and Pre-Neoplasia in Lung Cancer, LCRF Research Grants on Understanding Resistance in Lung Cancer, and LCRF Minority Career Development Award (CDA) for Lung Cancer.

LCRF awarded its grants for projects that show promise to make a sustained and lasting impact on the field of lung cancer research and lung cancer outcomes. These grants are made possible, in part, by support from Bristol Myers Squibb and donations from LCRF’s many generous supporters.

“It is always exciting to extend grant funding to these dedicated investigators,” said Colleen Conner Ziegler, Chair of LCRF’s Board of Directors. “It is through these research grants that LCRF can have the most impact on the lung cancer community and improve patient outcomes, both in the short and long term.”

“We are committed to supporting science that seeks solutions to lung cancer’s most challenging issues,” said Katerina Politi, PhD, Chair of LCRF’s Scientific Advisory Board, Cancer Biologist and Professor at Yale’s School of Medicine. “Breakthroughs can only happen if the most promising ideas of these talented investigators are funded.”

Through its Leading Edge Research Grant in Lung Cancer, LCRF funds innovative research focused on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. This year, LCRF will be funding two projects through this mechanism.

LCRF’s Minority Career Development Award for Lung Cancer, a two-year award to support early-stage scientists from underrepresented groups, is supported in part by a grant from Bristol Myers Squibb. This year, LCRF will be funding one project in this area that will increase representation of investigators from underrepresented groups in the lung cancer research workforce.

LCRF’s Research Grant on Early Detection and Pre-Neoplasia in Lung Cancer is presented to an investigator whose project facilitates or advances the understanding and characterization of pre-neoplasia or approaches for early detection in non-small cell and small cell lung cancer.

The LCRF Research Grants on Understanding Resistance in Lung Cancer are presented to two recipients whose projects focus on combatting therapeutic resistance.

Lloyd Bod, PhD

Each year, LCRF recognizes exemplary projects through its James B. Dougherty, MD Award, and its William C. Rippe Award for Distinguished Research in Lung Cancer, in honor of the contributions to LCRF made by these esteemed former board members.

The James B. Dougherty, MD Award for Scientific Merit is presented to the investigator whose proposal was selected for outstanding overall merit by the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board. This year’s recipient is Lloyd Bod, PhD of Massachusetts General Hospital, whose project is titled “Harnessing B cell specific checkpoint molecules in lung cancer.”

“This award fuels our quest to explore B cells in lung cancer, aiming to unlock groundbreaking treatments. I’m deeply grateful for the recognition,” remarked Dr. Bod.

LCRF’s William C. Rippe Award for Distinguished Research in Lung Cancer is presented to the investigator whose proposal not only demonstrated exceptional scientific merit but also exemplified an enduring commitment to making an impact in the field of lung cancer research. This year’s recipient is Francisco Expósito, PhD from Yale University, whose project is titled “Investigating novel synthetic lethal vulnerabilities in EGFR-driven lung cancer.”

Francisco Expósito, PhD

“I am really honored to receive the William C. Rippe Award for Distinguished Research in Lung Cancer from the Lung Cancer Research Foundation,” said Dr. Expósito. “Thanks to the support from LCRF we hope to uncover novel genetic vulnerabilities of EGFR-driven lung tumors and leverage these findings to implement and inform new precision-based treatments for this type of tumors in the future.”

LCRF 2023 Grant Award Recipients:

The 2023 Leading Edge Grant Program award recipients include:

  • Francisco Expósito, PhD, Yale University
    William C. Rippe Award for Distinguished Research in Lung Cancer recipient
    Investigating novel synthetic lethal vulnerabilities in EGFR-driven lung cancer
  • Benjamin Morris, PhD, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center 
    Deep whole genome sequencing of circulating tumor DNA for studying evolution and therapy resistance in small cell lung cancer

The 2023 Minority Career Development Award recipients include:

  • Lloyd Bod, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital
    James B. Dougherty, MD Award for Scientific Merit recipient
    Harnessing B cell specific checkpoint molecules in lung cancer
  • Luis Pietro, PhD, Mayo Clinic
    Impact of senescent cells on lung tumorigenesis

The 2023 Research Grant on Early Detection and Pre-Neoplasia in Lung Cancer award recipient:

  • Darren Chiu, MD, Boston University
    The Spatial B Cell Landscape in Lung Squamous Premalignant Lesions

The 2023 Research Grants on Understanding Resistance in Lung Cancer award recipients include:

  • Trever Bivona, MD, PhD, Regents of the University of California, San Francisco
    Characterization and therapeutic targeting of a tumor-tumor microenvironment network promoting resistance to targeted therapy in lung cancer
  • Ann Pendergast, PhD, Duke University School of Medicine
    Uncovering novel vulnerabilities to treat SCLC therapy resistance

For more information about LCRF and the Scientific Grant Program, visit LCRF.org/Research.

###

About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation® (LCRF) is the leading nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with lung cancer. LCRF’s mission is to improve lung cancer outcomes by funding research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. To date, LCRF has funded 416 research grants, totaling nearly $43 million, the highest amount provided by a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding lung cancer research. For more information, visit LCRF.org.

Contact:
Sheila Sullivan
Sr. Director, Marketing and Communications
ssullivan@lcrf.org

Posted in Announcements, Grants, ResearchTagged ,

Groups introduce $2.5 million, four-year research partnership focused on finding cure for oncogene-driven lung cancers

NEW YORK, NY (diciembre 5, 2023) – The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) today announced a new research partnership, titled IASLC – LCRF Team Science Research Grant on the Next Step in the Cure of Oncogene-Driven Lung Cancers.

Lung cancer is responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other cancer, accounting for an estimated 130,180 deaths annually in the United States alone. In the last 10 to 15 years, accelerated clinical trials and FDA approvals of targeted therapies for non-small cell lung carcinoma have been possible in part due to advances in molecular profiling of tumors. Many of these targeted therapies are directed against oncogenic drivers, with EGFR as one of the first oncogenic drivers that was successfully targeted with the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs.) Shortly thereafter, EML4-ALK rearrangements were identified as molecular markers and tumors harboring these alterations could successfully be treated with molecularly targeted agents.  Subsequently additional oncogenic driver alterations in BRAF, RET, KRAS G12C, HER2, MET, NTRK, and ROS1 were identified along with corresponding therapeutic options for treatment.  Despite substantial progress in this area, available treatments are not curative, and resistance to those treatments invariably develops.

Because current therapeutic options   are not curative, IASLC and LCRF have created this Team Science award to focus on furthering the development of novel therapies, including immunotherapeutic approaches, for patients with oncogene-driven lung cancers. It is the intent of the two organizations to fund work that will have the potential to increase survivorship, and have a near-term benefit for these patients.

“Resistance in oncogene-driven lung cancers is a frustrating inevitability for these patients,” says Dr. Antoinette Wozniak, Chief Scientific Officer for LCRF. “Partnering with IASLC on funding research that will bring us closer to a cure is not only exciting, it is the right thing to do. We firmly believe that it is in working together – funders as well as researchers – that solutions will be discovered and survivorship will increase.”

“We, along with LCRF, recognize that it takes teams of people to address large, complicated problems like oncogenic-driven lung cancers and resistance to therapy,” says Dr. Karen Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, IASLC. “We’re pleased to be collaborating with LCRF to create this Team Science award to work on curing oncogenic-driven lung cancers.”

The IASLC-LCRF Team Science Research Grant on the Next Step in the Cure of Oncogene-Driven Lung Cancers award is expected to total $2.5 million for a period of four years to a team of researchers whose proposals have a program of closely integrated projects focused on the specific goal of curing oncogene-driven lung cancer that would not otherwise be realized by any single component of the team.

All applications will be subject to a rigorous review by IASLC’s Scientific Affairs Committee and LCRF’s Scientific Advisory Board. More details about the Request for Proposal, along with eligibility, requirements, and deadlines will soon be available at LCRF.org/FundingOpportunities.

###

About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF)
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation® (LCRF) is the leading nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with lung cancer. LCRF’s mission is to improve lung cancer outcomes by funding research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. To date, LCRF has funded 418 research grants, totaling nearly $44 million, the highest amount provided by a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding lung cancer research. For more information about the LCRF grant program and funding opportunities, visit LCRF.org/research.

About IASLC
The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) is the only global organization dedicated solely to the study of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies. Founded in 1974, the association’s membership includes more than 10,000 lung cancer specialists across all disciplines in over 100 countries, forming a global network working together to conquer lung and thoracic cancers worldwide. The association also publishes the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, the primary educational and informational publication for topics relevant to the prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment of all thoracic malignancies. Visit IASLC.org for more information.

Contact:

LUNG CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION (LCRF)
Sheila Sullivan
Sr. Director, Marketing & Communications
ssullivan@lcrf.org

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF LUNG CANCER (IASLC)
Chris Martin
IASLC Media Relations
cmartin@davidjamesgroup.com

Posted in Announcements, ResearchTagged ,

diciembre 2023

Five years ago, Amy had a birthday surprise that she never wanted or expected.

She was told that she had Stage 4 squamous non-small cell lung cancer.

Amy explains: “I had a flu shot and 2 weeks later, a lymph node popped up on my neck. I just assumed it was a side effect of the flu shot. After 2 weeks, I realized it was more than a side effect or infection. I went to my Primary Care Doctor, who ordered bloodwork and a CT scan of my neck where the lymph node was. The bloodwork showed a slightly elevated calcium level, no big deal…the CT scan, however, caught a lesion in my right lung.”

At that point, Amy had a CT-guided biopsy on the neck lymph node and was given the unfortunate news on her birthday. Then a PET scan showed her cancer was Stage 4.

Her treatments at the University of Pennsylvania varied. Keytruda, an immunotherapy, did not work for her; she also had radiation on her hips, femurs, and foot; stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) on the lung nodule; and cryoablation on her adrenal gland.

Fortunately, Amy had a lot of support. “I found several support groups online. Having a place to go to follow other people and ask about side effects, vent my worries, and hear all about people surviving longer gave me hope.” In addition, her family gave her strength. “It’s not what they said, it’s the fact that they stayed by my side the whole time.”

Amy learned about LCRF about six months after diagnosis, through one of her Facebook support groups. She has used LCRF’s educational materials and attended webinars such as the #TogetherSeparately series with guest expert speakers.

> Register for the next #TogetherSeparately event and find out more about the ongoing series.

“I have learned so much about lung cancer. I think knowing as much as you can is part of fighting the fight. You can help others in the same boat with accurate information, as well as talk to your own doctors about the information.”

Amy urges newly diagnosed patients to look for support groups online, such as the Lung Cancer Community Facebook group.

Her advice for those patients: “Do not automatically think you’re not going to be alive in a year. You may live longer than what the internet says – or even what you may think and feel.”

> LCRF offers information and materials through its support line: (844) 835-4325.
> Join the Lung Cancer Community Facebook group here.
> Other resources and groups are listed on our Quick Links page for patients and caregivers.

Posted in Journeys, People, Women & Lung CancerTagged

The good news

Treatment is available for Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS), a rare disorder that affects the neuromuscular system. Patients with LEMS usually have muscle weakness that is proximal in nature making it difficult for them to walk, climb stairs, and arise from a chair.  Other nerves can also be affected causing double vision, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath. 

Why it’s important

LEMS is closely associated with the presence of a malignancy, particularly Small Cell Carcinoma of the Lung (SCLC).  About 2-3% of patients with SCLC will have LEMS. The patient can present with a wide range of symptoms from mild to severe. The physical signs of LEMS can be present before the cancer is evident. LEMS is often misdiagnosed, so it is very important to make a correct diagnosis so that there can be a thorough evaluation for the presence of cancer. 

What it means for patients

It is very important to determine if a patient has LEMS associated with cancer so that the cancer can be treated as soon as possible. Effective treatment of the cancer can improve muscle weakness, but sometimes if the symptoms are more severe additional therapy may be needed. The effects of LEMS can be very debilitating and have a great impact on the quality of life of patients suffering from this condition. Amifampridine is the only FDA-approved drug available for the treatment of adult patients with LEMS. The drug works by increasing a substance called acetylcholine which improves the connection between nerves and muscle. Clinical trials employing amifampridine have demonstrated an improvement in muscle strength for LEMS patients with manageable side effects.

What to watch for

It is important to be aware of LEMS as a diagnosis despite its rarity. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of this syndrome could lead to earlier diagnosis of small cell lung cancer, resulting in more timely treatment. It is also important to know that there are treatments available such as amifampridine that can improve some of the devastating symptoms and have a positive impact on a patient’s quality of life.

Posted in Science Made SimpleTagged , ,

The good news

The European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress was held recently in Madrid. Advances presented in the treatment of lung cancer were particularly prominent.

Why it’s important

The results of several large trials in lung cancer were presented. 

  • For early stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the phase III CheckMate 77T study compared neoadjuvant (before surgery)chemotherapy alone with neoadjuvant nivolumab (immunotherapy) plus chemotherapy followed by adjuvant (after surgery) nivolumab. Data revealed improved survival free of any disease-related events for patients who had the nivolumab and chemotherapy. 
  • A second similar trial, KEYNOTE 671, testing neoadjuvant pembrolizumab and chemotherapy, indicated that patients who received the treatment before surgery lived longer. This is the first time that a neoadjuvant study has shown these results. 
  • For patients with ALK-positive NSCLC who have had their cancer surgically removed, the phase III ALINA trial demonstrated a better outcome for patients who received the ALK inhibitor alectinib after surgery.

Other interesting information was presented for patients with advanced NSCLC. Promising results were presented for patients with EGFR mutated lung cancer. Amivantimab, an antibody which targets both EGFR and MET, looked promising when combined with other therapies as a first or second treatment for patients. We continue to see additional updates on the use of an antibody drug conjugate, datopotamab deruxtecan. Even for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), we had encouraging news. There was evidence of activity of the DLL3-targeted bispecific T cell engager tarlatamab in advanced-stage SCLC. 

What it means for patients

It is very exciting that advancements in the treatment of lung cancer were front and center at the ESMO meeting. These findings may further expand the range of therapeutic options available for patients with many different types of lung cancer.

What to watch for

Nivolumab combined with chemotherapy has already been approved for the treatment of NSCLC patients before surgery. The FDA just approved a similar use for pembrolizumab based on the results of the KEYNOTE 671 trial. Researchers will continue to use the results of these trials to refine the treatment of patients with early-stage NSCLC. 

Many questions still need to be answered, especially determining which patients benefit the most from treatment and how long to treat patients to obtain the maximum benefit and the fewest side effects. Look for more trials evaluating the novel agents that hopefully will determine their use in treatment.

Posted in Research, Science Made SimpleTagged , , ,

LCRF’s 2023 Scientific Symposium was held noviembre 1, the first day of Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Joining the record-breaking group online were program chair and moderator, Kathryn O’Donnell, PhD; our chat moderator, Isabel Preeshagul, DO, MBS; and speakers Brendon M. Stiles, MD; Colleen Conner Ziegler; Aaron Hata, MD, PhD; Nikhil Joshi, PhD; Stephen V. Liu, MD; Christine Lovly, MD, PhD; and Triparna Sen, PhD.

Watch the replay below.

Posted in Awareness, Events, ResearchTagged , ,

First major milestone met in trial to inform neoadjuvant targeted therapy options for patients with early-stage lung cancer

NEW YORK, NY (octubre 24, 2023) – The Lung Cancer Mutation Consortium (LCMC), facilitated by the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF), announces the enrollment of one hundred patients in its fourth study, LCMC4 Evaluation of Actionable Drivers in EaRly Stage Lung Cancer (LEADER), examining targeted drugs given as single agents and combinations as neoadjuvant therapies matched to specific genetic mutations.

This is the first of the LEADER trial’s major milestones to be met, with many more to come. Seventeen sites are currently enrolling patients in the study with more sites expected to join the trial.

The LEADER trial, together with matched industry-sponsored therapeutic trials, aims to develop data that will support oncologists in their targeted treatment planning for cancer patients prior to surgery by screening for eleven actionable driver mutations in patients.

“We’re incredibly excited to have met this first major milestone in patient accrual. The importance of this study to patients with early-stage lung cancers cannot be overstated. Expanding the benefit of targeted treatment to this group can have a marked impact on patient care,” says Mark G. Kris, MD, Attending Physician, Thoracic Oncology Service, Department of Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and one of the investigators of the LEADER trial.

Patients with early-stage lung cancers who are interested in participating in the LCMC LEADER trial should discuss the study with their oncologist to determine eligibility and the process for enrollment.

To learn more about LCRF and its grants program, visit LCRF.org

To learn more about LCMC and the LEADER trial, visit LCRF.org/LCMC4

###

About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF)
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation® (LCRF) is the leading nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with lung cancer. LCRF’s mission is to improve lung cancer outcomes by funding research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. To date, LCRF has funded 409 research grants, totaling nearly $42 million, the highest amount provided by a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding lung cancer research. For more information, visit LCRF.org.

Posted in ResearchTagged ,

octubre 2023

“I was told to get my affairs in order and quit working,” Christine remembers.

A healthy, active woman of 57 with no previous health issues, she had gone to the doctor with shortness of breath, clavicle, and shoulder pain. After an initial X-ray, she had CT, MRI, and PET scans, which confirmed pleural and cardiac effusion and metasticized adenocarcinoma non-small cell lung cancer, stage 4. “I had cancer in my lungs, liver and brain,” she said. “I was in disbelief because I felt fine, except for shortness of breath when I went up a flight of stairs. I also, immediately thought, OK, I have this – what do we do? What is my game plan? Let’s do this.”

A biopsy confirmed Christine’s cancer carried the ALK mutation – “a game changer,” she said. Lung cancer linked to genetic mutations such as ALK can be treated with targeted therapy drugs. These treatments allow patients to better manage their cancer and have resulted in better survival rates for advanced disease.

“I have been on targeted therapy since the beginning of my ALK positive diagnosis,” Christine said. “I have been on two targeted drugs: alectinib, which got rid of the brain and liver spots, and now lorlatinib.” She has also undergone pulmonary cardiac effusions to drain fluid out of the linings of her lungs and heart.

> Learn more about ALK and other biomarkers here.

‘Cancer is hard’

“I am a naturally hopeful person, but cancer is hard. I think it takes some time to process that you have such a terrible disease. It did for me – it took me a while to wrap my head around me actually being so sick. I have never really been sick; maybe a cold or flu a few times but I was a very busy and active person. I did all the things – mowed, painted houses, played with grandkids, put down sod, built things, gardened – you name it, I have done. it. Everything changes.”

While her cancer is in check, Christine has nonetheless experienced physical fluctuations that have proved challenging. “I gained 70 pounds, have osteoarthritis in joints, concentration levels changed, body swelling (edema). I developed neuropathy in my hands, arms, legs, and feet; thyroid disease; diabetes type 2; and Horner Syndrome (sweating on one side of face, neck and eye drooping). People around you also change in the way they interact with you once you have a diagnosis.”

Strength through support

Christine has found strength through the support of her family, friends, and fellow survivors.

“My husband has been my main source of support and source of hope, along with my children and grandchildren. Staying involved and active with those I love or care about keeps me going.”

In addition, “my cancer support group has been amazing,” she said. “Sarah Bechard is our social worker who leads us and does an amazing job. Just sharing how we LIVE with our diagnosis and treatment together is so important… sharing tips and how – or who – our doctors are, and how to deal with the medical community so they can better help us.”

Christine participates in LCRF’s Lung Cancer Community Facebook group, and attends online events such as #TogetherSeparately educational talks. These activities give her a “sense of power in helping cancer patients now and in the future.”

She also makes sure to enjoy simple pleasures: “Nature. Sunrises, sunsets, swimming, art – painting, writing, quilting – creating. Prayer and meditation.”

Her advice for others diagnosed with lung cancer: “Take one day at a time. Do your own research, ask questions, and remember it’s okay to not be okay. Take time to process. Get into a support group! Go to a counselor. Check out palliative care and what they can do to help with treatment symptoms.”

> LCRF offers information and materials through its support line: (844) 835-4325.
> Join the Lung Cancer Community Facebook group here.
> Other resources and groups are listed on our Quick Links page for patients and caregivers.

Posted in Journeys, PeopleTagged , , , ,

Introducing our 2023 Team LCRF runners who will be doing the TCS New York City Marathon on noviembre 5! Read more below about this year’s amazing group of marathoners who are raising awareness and fundraising for lung cancer research.

Support a marathoner by donating

Anthony previously completed a half marathon in 2022.

“I became aware through my work in the pharmaceutical industry of the important, underserved community that has proven it can develop life changing therapies with more attention, focus and resources. I also want to model healthy habits for my children by successfully completing my very first marathon.”

Favorite food while training: “Apples and peanut butter.”

Anthony’s fundraising page

Casey, a journalist, is proud she was able to get through her training runs during the hot NYC summer!

“My dad was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. He fortunately has qualified for a new targeted therapy that has received really great results in trials! My family is so grateful to organizations like LCRF that make these new treatments possible. I’m so excited to be running with the team this year!”

Favorite food while training: “The energy chews I use for long runs are basically candy, I have to stop myself from eating them all the time!”

Casey’s fundraising page

Hannah, a journalist for 10 Tampa Bay Nightside, is proud of every long training run she’s done in preparation for this marathon.

“My charismatic and resilient aunt, Reina Honts, credits early screening and detection with catching her lung cancer in 2018. Five years later, she is now cancer-free thanks to medical advancements made possible through the support of groups like the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. I’m running for her and the millions of other people touched by this disease.”

Favorite food while training: “My long run ritual is chicken parm and spaghetti the night before!”

Hannah’s fundraising page

Jared is an attorney who earlier this year completed the Brooklyn Half Marathon in Coney Island.

“My mother Elaine was only 48 years old when lung cancer took her life in 2007. She was loving, generous, and radiated positivity, even during difficult times. My mom was an avid runner and if she were alive today, I have no doubt she would be running by my side (or far ahead of me).”

Best running tip: “Keep the music pumping and always have fun.”

Jared’s fundraising page

John is a financial advisor and finished a half marathon just last month.

“My wife Reina had lung cancer about 5 years ago. Thankfully, she has been cancer free since her original surgery. Reina’s mom also died from lung cancer. So, helping to cure lung cancer through research is important for our family.”

What he does on rest days: “I try to squeeze in golf if I have free time and I’m not running.”

John’s fundraising page

Joshua is a 2nd grade teaching assistant, and was proud to have earned 1st place in his age group at age 12 in his mom’s memorial 5K race.

“Being a part of Team LCRF is very important to me as it is something I envisioned myself being a part of since I was a kid. I am running in memory of my mom, Lynn Adams, who passed away from lung cancer when I was only 9 years old. Growing up whenever I would think about giving back to charity, I always thought of lung cancer first. I am thrilled to finally be putting my money where my mouth is. Aside from my goal of raising $4,000, I also have a competitive goal of trying to finish the marathon in under 4 hours!”

What’s on his running playlist: “The song “Running up that Hill” from Stranger Things gets me going whenever I run.”

Joshua’s fundraising page

Julie, a nurse practitioner, completed her first marathon last oct.

“Lung cancer took Babci from our family in septiembre 2022. Despite her endless courage to continue treatment, her will to fight through her worst days, and her never ending hopefulness to hear the words “cancer-free”, she was unable to defeat her illness. Being a nurse, I was able to advocate for her and help navigate a difficult road filled with unfamiliarities of treatment plans, medication side effects, test results, as well as overwhelming emotions and uncertainties. I’m thankful I was able to be there for her, however miniscule my support may have been in comparison to all that she had done for me in the 27 years of my life.”

Favorite food while training: “Peanut butter!”

Julie’s fundraising page

Mike is a self employed real estate investor.

“I will be running in the 2023 New York City Marathon in memory of my sister Jen who was diagnosed with Metastatic EGFR-sensitizing non-small lung adenocarcinoma, stage 4 in 2017 and unfortunately lost her battle in febrero 2021 at the age of 47. Jen was trying to make a difference in the world for people who suffer from this. She also was trying to stop the stigma of it being a ‘smokers disease’ and raise awareness about how anyone can get lung cancer.”

Proudest running accomplishment: “my first marathon, which happened to be NYC.”

Favorite food while training: “Steak and a baked potato.”

Michael’s fundraising page

Naomi, an attorney, feels good about finding the time to prioritize herself and her runs, “and also successfully crossing four lanes of highway traffic after accidentally getting lost near the GW bridge on my first NYC long run!”

“I am running in honor of my grandmother. Team LCRF has been particularly meaningful to me because of their emphasis on research and sharing critical information with lung cancer patients and loved ones. Knowledge is power!”

What’s on her running playlist: “Higher Love” (Whitney Houston & Kygo). This may be on my running playlist, but it also is on every single other playlist I have.”

Naomi’s fundraising page

Ryan works in commercial real estate investments, and is proud to have the courage to sign up for this race without having any previous running accomplishments.

“I’m thrilled to be running the 2023 New York City Marathon this noviembre in memory of my grandparents, John and Patricia Burns, who both passed away from Lung Cancer in 1999 and 2010. Since then, supporting causes like lung cancer research and hospice care have held positions close to my heart. I’m thrilled I get to run in their honor.”

Favorite running tip: “Getting out there early. There’s something about running the streets of New York when it’s quiet and the sun is rising that gets my blood pumping. Plus, it sets your day up for success, knowing that if you crushed a 10-mile run at 5:30 in the morning, you can do whatever else you put your mind to for the day.”

Ryan’s fundraising page

Shannon is a dental hygienist and decided to sign up for her first marathon after completing the Brooklyn Half Marathon last spring.

“I am running in memory of my father, Dan Moore, who passed away at age 54 due to Lung Cancer as a nonsmoker. He was my #1 fan and I know he will give me the strength that I need to cross the finish line come race day.”

Favorite food while training: “Chipotle and a Diet Coke after a long run is my favorite!”

Shannon’s fundraising page

Sophie works in operations for Fair Harbor Clothing and made a personal record in her half marathon time during training!

“Since running the Brooklyn Half Marathon in abril 2023, I have found such joy in running. I am energized to combine that joy with the incredible work the LCRF is doing in both the medical field, and with community support to those whose lives have been impacted by lung cancer. A family member of mine was diagnosed with lung cancer around the time of the of the 2022 NYC Marathon, and I immediately knew I wanted to run in 2023 with Team LCRF.”

What’s on her running playlist: “Podcasts during training have been my go to! Smartless and Armchair Expert have been two of my favorites. They make me laugh, keep my pace slow, and make the time go by fast.”

Sophie’s fundraising page

Todd is a financial advisory in New York.

“I’m honored to support a cause that’s very important to me and my family. My mom died at 53 from lung cancer and my sister, Reina, is a lung cancer survivor. This year’s marathon is a family affair! I will be running along with my brother-in-law, John, and my niece, Hannah.”

Todd’s fundraising page

Will is a law student and previously has run 12 miles. He is running with his mom, Susan, who is a private banker.

“I have participated in fundraisers for LCRF in the past. Last year, a close family friend passed away from lung cancer. In his memory, his son and I hiked 500 miles in the French Pyrenees mountains.”

Training partner: “I am running with my friend, Sam, who is also running with her mom!”

Will & Susan’s fundraising page

LCRF is proud of this fantastic team!
Cheer them on as they prepare for the TCS NYC Marathon!

A special thank you to CBRE for sponsoring
Team LCRF for the 2023 TCS NYC marathon.

Posted in Endurance Events, Fundraising, UncategorizedTagged , ,
EspañolEnglish