
“I didn’t think that we were involved in great change, but then change became the name of the game.” — Loretta Ford
CURE® presents our readers with a unique opportunity each year to nominate a colleague, patient, friend and family of outstanding individuals working to end the stigma and make a difference in the lives of those affected by lung cancer. Together as one community, we can raise awareness of lung cancer, and most importantly, recognize and celebrate the esteemed individuals contributing to improving the lives of lung cancer patients, our Lung Cancer Heroes®.

“I didn’t think that we were involved in great change, but then change became the name of the game.” — Loretta Ford

A patient's husband writes about the persistence and passion of her oncologist, Dr. Bruno Fang, in helping her through treatment for stage 4 lung cancer.

"In the three years since her diagnosis, Lisa has become a champion for those with lung cancer, raising money for research and advocating for policies to find new treatments and cures."

An oncologist writes about the valuable contributions of another oncologist in the field.

"Dr. Ramirez is passionate about lung cancer and his research," writes Kristen Gurba in a submission for the CURE® Lung Cancer Heroes® Award.

Ashley is a tremendous asset to the lung cancer community — she lives and breathes hope into her patients and providers day in and day out.

"He strengthens you with the scientific knowledge he provides, with his courage as a role model and with his fighting spirit.”

A patient writes about the impact Dr. Aaron Mansfield had on her during treatment.

"Although there is no shortage of problems to be solved across the health landscape, Marty made his bio debut by tackling one of the biggest addressable markets in oncology: lung cancer."

An oncologist writes about a local cancer care leader who developed an impressive multidisciplinary cancer team.

"Hildy’s creative energy in founding and nurturing Upstage Lung Cancer has made many more people aware of the disease," one man writes.

A patient with small cell lung cancer nominates writes about the woman who connected her to others with the same diagnosis.

A cancer survivor writes about the oncologist who helped him conquer the fears and anxieties of cancer treatments.

"Jutta Becker does not wear a cape and she cannot fly, but she does soar," writes a colleague nominating Becker for the Lung Cancer Heroes® award.

Deborah Pickworth, who is living with stage 4 lung cancer, was nominated for the Lung Cancer Heroes® award for her impact in supporting and advocating for others with the disease.

"Whereas scientific and organizational developments have been landmarks for Dr. Hirsch, his care for patients has always been in the center and, as a cancer survivor himself, he will always have patient care at the forefront."

"Although Carolyn loved her role as a navigator, she realized she could help patients with lung cancer with a screening program to help with earlier detection."