My name is Kathy Lynch. I live in Cary, NC. I am married with twin boys, who graduated last year from UNC in Chapel Hill.

In the spring of 2024, I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. After a lumpectomy (all margins were clear) and radiation, I went on with my life.

In the spring of 2025, I developed lymphedema as a result of taking out two lymph nodes during my lumpectomy. My GP ordered a chest X-ray to confirm the lymphedema. At that time, a mass was discovered in my right lung. A biopsy was performed and it was found to be stage 1 lung cancer. After a partial lobectomy of my right lung, the pathology report concluded that my cancer was in stage 4 and had entered my lymph system. An MRI confirmed that the cancer has spread to my brain. After a consultation with my oncologist, I was found to have the EGFR substrain. I was put on Tagrisso and underwent chemotherapy for 3 months. In December 2025, I was found to be cancer free! I still have to take the Tagrisso, but all of my cancer is gone.

I could not have made it without the tremendous support of my husband and sons, as well as my cousins (Marie, Beth and AnneMarie), my neighbors and friends in Cary (shout out to the Bunco Babes!) and my friends and family far away. I had a prayer blanket sent to me from my sister-in-law in Ireland which meant the world to me. I have friends in Maine and New Mexico who showered me with cards, presents, and texts letting me know I was loved.

After the all clear, I wanted to get involved to change the protocol to find a way to screen for lung cancer. I am a never smoker and I had no symptoms. If my GP had not ordered a chest X-ray for my lymphedema, I may not be alive today.

My state representative, Julie Von Haefen, introduced me to LCI. I quickly got involved in attending events, including the Lunge Forward in March of 2025 and managed to walk the 5k with my husband, while my son ran the event.

At LCI, I have found my people. LCI has been so supportive of my recovery and my desire to get involved. Since my diagnosis and news of being cancer free, I have a new perspective on life. Every day is a gift that I was sure I would have. I am so very grateful to be alive and to be able to continue on life’s journey with my family and friends.

The best piece of advice I can give someone starting on this journey is that you are not alone. This organization, LCI, is full of people whose mission it is to help you as best they can to make your journey as pleasant as possible. In LCI there is a whole group of us who have gone through the diagnosis and treatment, and are living proof of the miracles of modern medicine.