Celebrating Impact at the 2025 Annual Update & Awards Celebration

Anderson and Elizabeth have made a lasting impact on the lung cancer community and have been integral to LCI for many years. In 2024, they led the Lung Cancer Initiative Spring Golf Classic in memory of their mother, Susan C. Hicks. Through this heartfelt effort, they raised awareness and funds for those affected by lung cancer while honoring their mother’s legacy. They recruited and managed a dedicated committee, secured sponsorships and auction items, and exceeded their fundraising goal by raising over $50,000. Their efforts brought their community together and honored others by creating in-memory of and in-honor of signs for families impacted by lung cancer. Elizabeth and Anderson’s commitment, passion, and leadership in memory of their mother have profoundly impacted LCI and the many patients and families we serve.

Tom is an incredibly dedicated committee chair who played a pivotal role in the success of the Greenville LUNGe Forward 5K Run, Walk, and Celebration. Several years ago, Tom envisioned creating a 5K event to bring the lung cancer community together in the greater Greenville area. That vision became the Greenville LUNGe Forward, and his tenacity and positive attitude have inspired supporters, volunteers, runners, and walkers alike. Tom also secured critical sponsorships for the event, including a partnership with Grady White Boats. This accomplishment not only contributed to the success of the Greenville LUNGe Forward but also supported LCI’s growing network and impact across North Carolina and beyond.

Jennifer is an exceptional healthcare provider who has a remarkable ability to put patients at ease during incredibly challenging times. She consistently goes above and beyond to spread hope and offer help in any way she can. As a supporter of LCI since its earliest days, Jennifer has been deeply involved in the organization for many years, engaging in provider education events, the Evening of Hope, and other programming. She often recommends LCI’s programs and resources to her patients, encouraging them to attend events and connect with other survivors. Jennifer excels at linking survivors to the support, resources, and community they need.

Sonia is more than just a lung cancer survivor—she is an incredible friend, a steadfast source of support, and an invaluable volunteer. She constantly encourages other survivors to persevere through tough times, offering strength and hope when it’s needed most. Her passion for giving back and supporting others is truly inspiring, making her a guiding light for those facing their own challenges. Sonia is a dedicated supporter of several cancer organizations, including LCI. Over the past year, she contributed her time and talents to the Charlotte LUNGe Forward 5K planning committee and shared her powerful story during a Lung Cancer Awareness Month community education program at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. Sonia’s energy and commitment to the lung cancer community know no bounds.

Pam is a passionate and tireless advocate for lung cancer awareness. After the loss of her husband, Jim, she has dedicated herself to raising awareness and funds to support lung cancer research and education. Through her efforts to preserve and share Jim’s legacy, Pam has provided support and hope to others facing similar challenges. For three consecutive years, she has led the top fundraising team for the Charlotte LUNGe Forward 5K, Jim’s Jammin Joggers, securing multiple sponsorships and organizing a post-event social at Vaulted Oak Brewing. Pam was also featured in Tryon Medical Partners’ blog article, “When Non-Smokers Get Lung Cancer: Jim and Pam’s Story,” where she highlighted her involvement with LCI. Her unwavering dedication and passion inspire us all to keep moving forward and spreading hope, even in the most difficult times.

Bailey exemplifies the true meaning of volunteerism. Her support for LCI’s mission has been invaluable to the lung cancer community. Her hard work and dedication to the Greenville LUNGe Forward 5K Run, Walk, and Celebration were truly admirable. On campus, she promoted the event, rallied others to join her team, and successfully raised funds for the cause. Her input and influence on event planning and decision-making were crucial throughout 2024. Even on a rainy event day, Bailey’s upbeat attitude inspired those around her to persevere through the challenging conditions.

Fred is an incredibly dedicated volunteer who selflessly gives his time and energy to support LCI’s mission. He is frequently out in the community, raising awareness about lung cancer and promoting LCI’s events. His contributions to the Triad LUNGe Forward 5K Run, Walk & Celebration committee were instrumental to the event’s success. Whether talking to people in passing cars on street corners or engaging with people in the drive-through line at Chick-fil-A, Fred’s grassroots efforts brought awareness and hope to the community. His tireless dedication, combined with his remarkable ability to connect with anyone, helped raise over $10,000 for the Triad LUNGe Forward event. Fred’s efforts are deeply personal, as he honors his son, who was diagnosed with lung cancer. He shared his son’s story during the on-stage program at the event, creating a powerful moment of connection and inspiration. Fred’s unwavering commitment and passion perfectly embody LCI’s mission, and he stands as a shining example of an exceptional volunteer.

The Jodi 5K Run & Walk began in 2021 as a memorial to honor Jodi Koviach who passed away from lung cancer. Organized by Jodi’s husband Sanjay Premakumar, along with her running group the “Forehead Flyers,” and Kim Page of Bull City Running, the first event brought together more than 220 participants, raising nearly $25,000. Each year since, the Jodi 5K has continued to celebrate Jodi’s life and legacy while supporting LCI. Held in her neighborhood, the event honors Jodi’s love of running and the sense of community it creates. Over time, it has grown significantly, selling out registrations and gaining the support of individual and corporate sponsors. The 2024 event drew more than 700 participants and raised nearly $90,000, bringing the total funds raised since 2021 to more than $250,000! We are deeply grateful to Sanjay and the Jodi 5K committee for partnering with us to support those facing lung cancer in our community while honoring Jodi’s memory.

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