Cancer can be hard—but with humor, heart, and a Star Trek spirit, one survivor shows how it can’t dim the brightest parts of life.

After a stage 1 carcinoid diagnosis arrived amid a year of major life changes, Lynn found peace through faith, community, and counseling — and has turned her recovery into a calling to advocate for other lung cancer survivors.

After Erika was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, she found an unexpected gift — a targeted therapy, a compassionate doctor, and a community that taught her hope isn’t wishful thinking, it’s what keeps her living.

“I discovered while pondering my identity as a survivor for this article, that I have felt like a survivor all my life.” Marie Nordgren shares her story of finding the pauses in life and the importance of leaning on loved ones during times of need.

Catherine was diagnosed with NSCLC adenocarcinoma 3a in May of 2025. While originally her prognosis was not good, she knew that something wasn’t right and that she needed to advocate for herself in that moment. After getting a second opinion and staying strong throughout her treatment, Catherine is more hopeful than ever.

Kathy was diagnosed in the spring of 2024 with stage 1 breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy. A year later, she developed lymphedema, and through the diligent work of her GP, found she had stage 4 lung cancer. She was found to be cancer free in December, and has found support through her family and LCI!

In July 2025, a seemingly health and active Zhanna was diagnosed with stage 1a lung adenocarcinoma. While raising two young children and maintaining normal life, Zhanna fought bravely, finding running to be a new critical part of her recovery. Less than 7 months after surgery, she ran her firs 5k and hasn’t stopped!

Diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer at age 40, Anne knew that her inner strength and determination would allow her to overcome her diagnosis. Throughout her diagnosis and treatment, Anne has remained thankful and continues to have a joyous perspective on life.

I was sitting in the lobby of my local car dealership waiting for an oil change when Ilistened to a voicemail recording telling me of an incidental finding of a 1.8cm lung nodule on arecent coronary calcium scan. The low bustling sounds of people typing on laptops,...

Listen to J.J Gentry's survivor story on the Stories of Hope Chat with Cheryl Lecroy