Allison Brodderick, CEO and Founder of Three Rivers Community Care

PITTSBURGH, PA (September 5, 2025) LiveLung, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners, invites the Pittsburgh community to its monthly educational meeting on Thursday, September 11th, at 11:30 a.m. The meeting, which includes a complimentary lunch and parking, will take place at Hyatt House Pittsburgh/ Bloomfield/ Shadyside at 5335 Baum Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15224.

The featured speaker will be Allison Brodderick, CEO and Founder of Three Rivers Community Care, who will present “

Music Therapy: Unlocking The Healing Power of Music

Brodderick, a board-certified music therapist, holds degrees from Duquesne University in Music Therapy and the University of Pittsburgh in Psychology. Since founding Three Rivers Community Care in 2018, she has grown the organization while remaining closely connected to the individuals it serves. In addition to her leadership, she continues to engage directly with patients and families, believing it is essential to stay grounded in day-to-day care.

LiveLung’s educational meetings provide valuable resources and opportunities for lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners to learn, network, and build community. Each meeting features an expert guest speaker who shares insights to empower attendees with knowledge and support.

Lung cancer patients and their care partners are welcome to learn more and register at 

https://www.livelung.org/meetings/pittsburgh

LiveLung is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to improve health outcomes by advancing lung cancer education, early detection, and compassion for people impacted by lung cancer. We do this by hosting a network of monthly educational community lung cancer patient groups. We also provide resource bags to dozens of cancer centers, where nurse navigators give them to newly diagnosed lung cancer patients.

Articles

LiveLung invites the Pittsburgh community to its monthly educational meeting.

LiveLung Pittsburgh Hosts Music Therapy Presentation for Lung Cancer Community

CPAN Quarterly News Bulletin June 2025: © stock.adobe.com.


A Note from the Director of Patient Advocacy & Education

The advocacy track made a much-anticipated return to COA’s annual Conference in April. Cancer survivors, caregivers, and CPAN chapter leaders representing 17 community oncology practices nationwide gathered to learn about COA and COA’s advocacy issues and learn from each other.

The two-day advocacy track began with Get to Know Your Fellow Advocates, designed to inspire participants and remind them that everyone can be a powerful advocate. Through sharing personal stories, we were all reminded that cancer does not define a person. It was a very special session!

The advocacy track sessions—attended by advocates and general attendees over both days—included the importance of preserving community oncology and why it matters to people living with cancer before moving on to understanding policy and the fundamentals of advocacy. A session on the power of storytelling taught us how one’s story could drive change, and a session on how to effectively share your story with the media tied everything together.

COA Director of Patient Advocacy & Education

Upcoming Advocacy Opportunities: CPAN Advocacy Chats – Educational Conversations on Cancer Advocacy and Policy

9/10/2025 Equity First: Addressing Food Insecurity at the Community Level

Join the COA Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN) on Wednesday, September 10, at 12 p.m. ET to learn how community oncology is uniquely positioned to help patients access food by partnering with local organizations and reaching those in need.

COA’s Director of Patient Advocacy and Education and Advocacy Chat host, Rose Gerber, MS, and the Director of Practice Support, Shiela Plasencia, will explore the link between food insecurity and health equity, the role that community oncology practices can play, and how your practice can connect with food banks and equity-first organizations to ensure patients are receiving the food they need to successfully fight cancer.

https://coacancer.zoom.us/webinar/register/2317522545525/WN_boHJYjkUQlewZSVRaMbwJQ#/registration

10/8/2025 Cancer Care Hijacked: How PBMs are Blocking Your Access to Medication

Join the COA Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN) on Wednesday, October 8, at 12 p.m. ET. COA’s Director of Clinical Initiatives, Christine Pfaff, MBA, RPh, will join host Rose Gerber, MS, Director of Patient Advocacy and Education and Advocacy Chat to discuss the impact Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) has on your medical access. Visit our website to learn more: 

Health Policy 101: COA President Dr. Debra Patt Testifies Before the U.S. House of Representatives

Community oncology’s innovative cancer treatments are leading to better outcomes, but some policies are limiting patients’ access to these treatments. COA President and Executive Vice President of Texas Oncology Debra Patt, MD, PhD, MBA, 

testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means

 on how policymakers can make innovative therapies accessible.

“Every day, as oncologists, we see patients who simply cannot afford their treatments. Our job as physicians includes advocating for our patients and doing whatever is possible to make their treatments as affordable as possible,” said Dr. Patt. “Our patients who are struggling with the affordability of cancer treatment depend on us.”

Watch Rick's Advocacy in Action Story [45 Seconds]

“Getting my medication on time and dealing with my insurance was actually harder than dealing with my cancer,” said Rick, a cancer survivor and CPAN advocate. He speaks up for independent community oncology so other people living with cancer can focus on their treatment. 

How do you support people living with cancer? 

Engaging conversations with cancer advocates, survivors, and professionals from around the country on community oncology’s most pressing topics.

 Cancer is a life-changing event. When families, friends, and providers understand an individual’s journey, they can better support people living with cancer and survivors. 

National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship

 Oncology nurses are integral to the cancer care team supporting people living with cancer. During National Oncology Nursing month, 

 State-level pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform has gained momentum in 2025 - most notably in Arkansas, where a new law would improve patient access to affordable treatments. COA Director of State Regulation and Policy 

state policy trends shaping patient care in 2025

What Community Oncologists Should Know About “Bellwether” for PBM Reform

Although more lawmakers in Congress are learning how PBMs affect patient care, legislative success is happening at the state level. Policy experts discussed three laws in Arkansas that could guide future PBM reform efforts during the COA 2025 Community Oncology Conference.

Women Who Survive Cancer Are More Likely Than Men to Have Fatigue and Depression

Women who survive cancer are more likely to experience cancer-related fatigue and depression than men, according to research presented at the American Association for Cancer Research’s annual meeting. The study found that, compared with male survivors, female cancer survivors were 69% more likely to report cancer-related fatigue and 58% more likely to report depression.

Advanced Cancers Returned To Pre-Pandemic Levels, According to a Reassuring Report

Many people living in America were forced to postpone cancer screenings for several months in 2020 as COVID-19 overwhelmed doctors and hospitals. But delays in screening have not impacted cancer death rates and late diagnoses have stayed consistent, according to a report published in the American Cancer Society’s Cancer journal.

Ensure policymakers understand how independent community oncology delivers local, high-quality cancer care. Invite policymakers with COA’s 

The recent COA annual conference featured an advocacy track for cancer survivors, caregivers, and CPAN chapter leaders, focusing on community oncology and policy understanding. Sessions emphasized storytelling's role in advocacy and media engagement. Upcoming events include virtual advocacy chats and a Capitol Hill Day follow-up. COA President Dr. Debra Patt testified before Congress on policy barriers to innovative cancer treatments. Recent CPAN advocacy chats covered cancer survivor experiences, oncology nursing roles, and state-level PBM reform. Notable news includes gender disparities in cancer-related fatigue and depression, and stable cancer diagnosis rates post-pandemic.

CPAN Quarterly News Bulletin – June 2025

LiveLung invites the Wilmington community to its monthly educational meeting: © stock.adobe.com.

WILMINGTON, NC- (July 29, 2025) LiveLung, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners, invites the
Wilmington community to its monthly educational meeting on Thursday, August
7th, at 12:30 p.m. The meeting, which includes a complimentary lunch, will take

place at Hampton Inn Wilmington- Medical Park, 2320 S 17th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.

This month’s guest speaker is Morgan Carson, PA-C, a certified physician assistant in Radiation Oncology at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical
Center. Carson is an experienced member of the multidisciplinary cancer care team and brings a patient-centered approach to lung cancer treatment and survivorship care.

She earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University in Savannah, Georgia, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

For more information, visit LiveLung.org. Lung Cancer patients and their care partners can RSVP to the meetings at http://livelung.org/meetings/wilmington.

LiveLung is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that aims to improve health outcomes by advancing lung cancer education, early detection, and compassion for lung cancer patients. We do this by hosting a network of monthly educational community lung cancer patient groups. We also provide resource bags to dozens of cancer centers, where nurse navigators give them to newly diagnosed lung cancer patients.

LiveLung, a nonprofit organization supporting lung cancer patients, invites the Wilmington community to its monthly educational meeting on August 7th. The event, featuring a complimentary lunch, will be held at Hampton Inn Wilmington-Medical Park. Morgan Carson, PA-C, a certified physician assistant in Radiation Oncology, will be the guest speaker, offering insights into lung cancer treatment and survivorship care. LiveLung's meetings provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and expert knowledge to empower lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners. More information and RSVP details are available on LiveLung's website.

LiveLung invites the Wilmington community to its monthly educational meeting.

LiveLung Wilmington Welcomes PA-C Morgan Carson for August Educational Lung Cancer Survivor Meeting

The August LiveLung Virtual meeting will feature 

HIGH POINT, NC (August 5, 2025) The August LiveLung Virtual meeting will feature Nitin Ohri, MD, MS, Board Certified Radiation Oncologist and Professor of Radiation Oncology at Montefiore Einstein.

This free virtual educational meeting, held on Wednesday, August 13 at 12:00 pm ET, is designed to help lung cancer patients and their care partners navigate the complex considerations that often accompany a lung cancer diagnosis.

During this virtual meeting, lung cancer survivors and their care partners will have the opportunity to learn directly from one of the nation’s leading minds in radiation oncology. In his presentation, 

“The Role of Radiation Oncology in Lung Cancer Treatment,”

 Dr. Ohri will break down how radiation fits into the overall treatment plan, share the latest advances in technology, and offer insights on what to expect throughout the treatment and recovery journey.

Dr. Ohri is a nationally recognized radiation oncologist whose work bridges cutting-edge research and compassionate clinical care. His research focuses on improving lung cancer treatment by combining novel imaging tools, wearable technology, and immunotherapy with radiation. He leads multiple clinical trials aimed at personalizing care and enhancing outcomes for cancer patients. Widely published and frequently invited to present his findings, Dr. Ohri is also a dedicated peer reviewer and active member of major oncology societies. His innovative approach to data-driven cancer care has earned him numerous awards and honors in the field.

https://www.livelung.org/meetings/virtual

The upcoming LiveLung Virtual meeting will feature Dr. Nitin Ohri, a renowned radiation oncologist, who will discuss the role of radiation oncology in lung cancer treatment. This free educational session aims to assist lung cancer patients and their care partners in understanding treatment complexities. Dr. Ohri will cover the integration of radiation in treatment plans, recent technological advancements, and expectations during treatment and recovery. His research focuses on enhancing lung cancer treatment through innovative methods, and he actively contributes to the oncology community through clinical trials and peer reviews.

The August LiveLung Virtual meeting will feature Nitin Ohri, MD, MS, Board Certified Radiation Oncologist and Professor of Radiation Oncology at Montefiore Einstein.


National Recognized Radiation Oncologist Presenting at Virtual Lung Cancer Patient Educational Meeting

Navigating Lung Cancer Survivorship: © stock.adobe.com.

HIGH POINT, NC- (July 29, 2025) LiveLung, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners, invites the Triad lung cancer community to its monthly educational meeting on Wednesday, August 1st, at 12:00 p.m. The meeting, which includes a complimentary lunch, will be held at Courtyard High Point, 1000 Mall Loop Road, High Point, NC 27265.

This month’s featured expert speaker is Lindsey Causey, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, AOCNP, Oncology Nurse Practitioner at Cone Health Cancer Center. Causey will present on the topic “Life After Diagnosis: Navigating Lung Cancer Survivorship."

Dr. Lindsey Causey is an Oncology Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in patient care, specializing in oncology and family medicine with a current focus on breast cancer and cancer survivorship. Driven by her commitment to improve quality of care for oncology patients and her belief that "There is no greater gift than giving one's time and energy to help others,” Dr. Causey strives to equip each of her patients “with the resources and support to lead fulfilling and vibrant lives.”

. Lung Cancer patients and their care partners can RSVP to the meetings at 

LiveLung, a nonprofit organization supporting lung cancer patients, invites the Triad community to its monthly educational meeting on August 1st in High Point, NC. The event will feature Lindsey Causey, an experienced Oncology Nurse Practitioner, discussing lung cancer survivorship. LiveLung's meetings offer valuable resources, networking, and community-building opportunities for patients, survivors, and care partners. The organization focuses on improving health outcomes through education, early detection, and compassion, providing resource bags to cancer centers for newly diagnosed patients. More information and RSVP details are available on LiveLung's website.

LiveLung invites the Triad lung cancer community to its monthly educational meeting.

‘Navigating Lung Cancer Survivorship’ Cone Health Oncology Nurse Practitioner Presenting to Educational Lung Cancer Triad Group

CHARLOTTE, NC (August 5, 2025) LiveLung, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting lung cancer patients, survivors, and their care partners, invites the Charlotte lung cancer community to its monthly educational meeting on Tuesday, August 12, at 11:30 a.m. The meeting, which includes a complimentary lunch, will take place at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1000 East Morehead Street, Fellowship Hall, Room 205, Charlotte, NC 28204.

This month’s meeting will feature expert speaker Melanie Lanese, a licensed massage therapist and yoga instructor, presenting “The Healing Power of Touch: The Role of Oncology Massage in Cancer Care.” During the presentation, lung cancer survivors and care partners will learn how oncology massage therapy can ease pain, reduce stress, and improve quality of life throughout the lung cancer journey.

Lanese is a licensed massage therapist (LMBT) and registered yoga teacher (RYT-200) who specializes in working with cancer patients. She says, “Working with cancer patients requires proper training to ensure their safety and well-being.” Because of this commitment, Melanie volunteers with the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM.org), helping to raise awareness among her colleagues about specialized trainings and resources designed to enhance care for cancer patients. Her passion lies in delivering compassionate, knowledgeable massage therapy and making yoga accessible to all who can benefit.

https://www.livelung.org/meetings/charlotte

LiveLung, a nonprofit organization, is hosting a monthly educational meeting for the Charlotte lung cancer community on August 12. The event will feature Melanie Lanese, a licensed massage therapist and yoga instructor, discussing the benefits of oncology massage in cancer care. Lanese emphasizes the importance of specialized training for working with cancer patients. LiveLung's meetings aim to provide resources, networking, and community building for lung cancer patients, survivors, and care partners. The organization also supports early detection and education through various initiatives.

Oncology Massage Expert Melanie Lanese to Speak at August LiveLung Charlotte Lung Cancer Meeting

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, a nonprofit in funding blood cancer research, patient support and advocacy, is becoming Blood Cancer United on August 28: © stock.adobe.com.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), the global nonprofit in funding blood cancer research, patient support and advocacy, is becoming Blood Cancer United on August 28, in advance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September.

For more than 75 years, LLS has been committed to reaching and supporting the entire blood cancer community—patients, families, caregivers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and partners—including those with blood cancers that aren't leukemia and lymphoma. With more than 100 types of blood cancers, such as myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), LLS gathered extensive feedback from across its network and determined that now is the time for an evolution—to better reflect the work and unity at the center of its mission.

"We are at a pivotal moment—not only for our organization, but for our community—when funding for cancer research and access to treatment and care are at risk," said E. Anders Kolb, M.D., President and CEO of LLS. "Patients and researchers are telling us they're worried about the impact these changes will have for anyone dealing with blood cancer, so there's no better time for a resource that helps us reach more of the patients who need us.

"The word 'united' is transformational and inviting," added Dr. Kolb. "I believe in the power of bringing together patients, families, scientists, volunteers, donors, business leaders, and health systems under a shared purpose. Blood Cancer United reflects who we are today and who we aspire to be—a unifying force advancing progress for every person impacted by blood cancer."

And when more people can be reached, the organization can get closer to its bold goal: By 2040, we will enable patients with blood cancer to gain more than one million years of life.

While LLS is evolving its name, the organization will continue to directly help patients by funding promising research, advancing innovative treatments, offering free support, and advocating for policies that help people access quality healthcare.

"This is more than a name change; it's a call to action that's more important than ever to ensure that every patient is seen, supported, and given a chance at life," said Gwen Nichols, M.D., LLS, Chief Medical Officer." Blood Cancer United reflects the strength of an entire community, working together to ensure every person with blood cancer can live a longer, better life - people affected by all 100+ types of blood cancer, beyond leukemia and lymphoma. It sends a powerful message: We are here for you. No blood cancer patient has to go it alone."

Launching for Blood Cancer Awareness Month 2025

Just in time for Blood Cancer Awareness Month this September, LLS will publicly unveil its new name on August 28, 2025. The reveal marks a transformation years in the making—one that promises to reach and unite the blood cancer community and ignite momentum. A new brand identity and campaign rollout will coincide this fall.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the global leader and innovator in creating a world without blood cancer, and the largest nonprofit funder of blood cancer research, investing more than $1.8 billion in the most pioneering science worldwide since 1949. The LLS mission: Cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. LLS is focused on accelerating research, providing free support and services, and advocating for policies to ensure access to quality, affordable care. For more than 75 years, LLS has been helping blood cancer patients live longer, better lives.

To learn more, visit www.LLS.org. Patients can contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Members of the media seeking more information or an interview, please contact: mediarelations@lls.org.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is rebranding as Blood Cancer United on August 28, ahead of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. This change aims to better represent the organization's commitment to the entire blood cancer community, including those with non-leukemia and lymphoma blood cancers. The rebranding reflects a unifying mission to support patients, families, and researchers, and to advance blood cancer research and treatment access. The organization remains dedicated to its mission of curing blood cancer and improving patient quality of life through research, support, and advocacy.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, a nonprofit in funding blood cancer research, patient support and advocacy, is becoming Blood Cancer United on August 28.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Unveils Name Change to Reach All Blood Cancer Patients

Enclosed is the 2025 Quarter 1 – COA Patient Advocacy Network News Bulletin: © stock.adobe.com.

Enclosed is the 2025 Quarter 1 – COA Patient Advocacy Network News Bulletin.

The beginning of the year is always busy for advocates, whether we’re making our voices heard in the new Congress or engaging with state lawmakers. This work requires us to learn from each other and collaborate to remind policymakers why community oncology is essential.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the Community Oncology Alliance’s annual conference in sunny Orlando, April 29-30, where the patient advocacy program track is returning. Participants will learn how to engage with federal and state elected officials, harness the power of storytelling, work with traditional and social media, and understand COA’s policy and advocacy priorities. I’m already hearing of palpable energy surrounding how we can raise the collective voice of community oncology.

Engage with Fellow Advocates and Policymakers to Strengthen Community Oncology

April 9: Virtual Advocacy Chat: State Policy Trends Shaping Patient Care in 2025 (featuring James Lee, COA director of state regulation and policy)

April 29-30: In-Person Event: Community Oncology Conference (Orlando, FL)

May 14: Virtual Advocacy Chat: National Oncology Nursing Month

June 11: In-Person Event: Patient Hill Day (Washington, D.C.)*

June 18: Virtual Advocacy Chat: Cancer Survivorship (featuring Shelley Fuld Nasso, MPP, National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship’s chief executive officer)

July 23: Virtual Advocacy Chat: Sit In My Chair*

Reach out to your local CPAN Chapter Advocacy Leader or to Rose Gerber, roseg@coacancer.org, to learn how to get involved.

Health Policy 101: What Ails the Health Care System, and How Is Community Oncology Affected?

The United States’ health care system is at a critical tipping point. An increase in mergers, acquisitions, and physicians employed by hospitals—a trend known as consolidation—creates a system where some mega hospitals and health systems dominate the market. Community-based practices close because of consolidation, leaving patients with higher treatment costs, longer wait times, and further travel distances. Mega health systems profit while patients, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, suffer the consequences of fewer independent oncology practices.

COA is advocating for Congress to fix these systemic issues so that patients can access local, affordable cancer care. 

Watch Ted Okon, executive director of COA, to learn more.

Watch Tonsa’s Advocacy in Action Story [60 Seconds]

Tonsa, a cancer survivor and CPAN chapter advocate for Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona, advocates for independent community oncology with her passion to help others and commitment to delivering positive change for patients. Watch Tonsa share why she advocates to make sure community oncology’s voice is heard in the latest 

 Maintaining healthy eating habits and personalized diets are essential for people living with cancer and survivors to manage their condition. April Rozzo, MS, RD, CSO, LD/N, clinical nutrition manager at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute joined Rose Gerber, to 

discuss helpful tips on nutrition planning

 Personal stories are a powerful way for patients, survivors, and caregivers to share experiences with policymakers. Rose Gerber and Caitlin Kubler, senior director of policy and advocacy at the Prevent Cancer Foundation, 

shared how their own cancer experiences affect their approach

 With a new Congress, a new administration, and new health care policy priorities, what can advocates expect in the legislative year ahead? COA Executive Director, Ted Okon and Managing Director, Nick Ferreyros joined Rose Gerber for a 

look into the crystal ball on all things cancer policy in 2025

Stream recent Advocacy Chats on @OncologyCOA’s YouTube channel.

Top-Rated Diet Lowers Cancer Risk in a Surprising Way, New Study Finds

Meals from the Mediterranean have been shown to reduce the risk of developing prostate, cervical, and colorectal cancer, while also decreasing the risk of women dying from any cancer by 17%, according to findings published in JAMA Network Open. The Mediterranean diet features simple, plant-based cooking, with much of each meal focused on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, and seeds, with a few nuts and a heavy emphasis on extra-virgin olive oil.

The Race To Explain Why More Young Adults Are Getting Cancer

Scientists are racing to answer why cancer, historically a disease of old age, is increasingly striking people in the prime of their lives. Globally, diagnoses and deaths related to early-onset cancer, affecting patients younger than 50, rose by 79% and 28%, respectively, from 1990 to 2019, according to a recent study published in BMJ Oncology.

Young Women Are Almost Twice as Likely to be Diagnosed With Cancer as Young Men: ‘We’re Seeing A Change’

Cancer diagnoses are shifting from older to younger adults and from men to women, according to a report released by the American Cancer Society. Breast and thyroid cancers, which account for nearly half of all cancer diagnoses in women younger than 50, are driving the trend.

COA is working with practices and policymakers to protect patient access to local, high-quality care. Check out the 

, a blueprint to addressing the health care system’s greatest challenges.

The COA Patient Advocacy Network News Bulletin highlights the importance of community oncology advocacy, emphasizing collaboration with policymakers and the impact of healthcare consolidation on patient access. Upcoming events include virtual and in-person advocacy opportunities, such as the Community Oncology Conference and Patient Hill Day. The bulletin also discusses recent advocacy chats on nutrition and storytelling in cancer care, and shares news on the Mediterranean diet's cancer risk reduction and the rise of early-onset cancer. COA continues to advocate for healthcare reform to ensure accessible, affordable cancer care.

2025 Quarter 1 – COA Patient Advocacy Network News Bulletin.

LCI proudly participated in the GO2 Voices Summit.

Lung Cancer Initiative (LCI) proudly participated in the GO2 Voices Summit held March 9–11, 2025, in Washington, DC. Representing LCI, Board Member Dr. Bradley Icard and Development Director Susan Kjellqvist joined advocates from across the nation to call for increased federal support for lung cancer research and to strengthen our advocacy skills.

Alongside fellow North Carolina constituents, they urged lawmakers to:

Pass a FY2025 spending bill with maximum cancer research funding.

Allocate $60 million to the Lung Cancer Research Program under the Department ofDefense’s CDMRP.

Support robust funding for the NIH, NCI, ARPA-H, and FDA.

They also advocated for two key legislative efforts:

Re-introduction of the bipartisan Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventative Services Act.

Co-sponsorship of the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 842/S. 339).

A highlight of the Summit was connecting with other passionate advocates, united by a shared commitment to fighting lung cancer. Together, they made it clear to Congress that cuts to research funding are unacceptable. Continued investment in lung cancer research has already saved lives—now is the time to build on that momentum, not risk it.

As we move forward, LCI remains dedicated to empowering the lung cancer community and championing the urgent need for sustained, increased funding. The future of research—and the lives it can save—depends on it.

https://lungcancerinitiative.org/lci-shows-support-for-research-funding-at-the-go2-voices-summit/

The Lung Cancer Initiative (LCI) actively participated in the GO2 Voices Summit in Washington, DC, advocating for increased federal support for lung cancer research. LCI representatives, including Dr. Bradley Icard and Susan Kjellqvist, joined other advocates to urge lawmakers to pass a FY2025 spending bill with maximum cancer research funding and allocate $60 million to the Lung Cancer Research Program. They also supported key legislative efforts, such as the Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventative Services Act and the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act. LCI remains committed to empowering the lung cancer community.

Lung Cancer Initiative proudly participated in the GO2 Voices Summit held March 9–11, 2025, in Washington, DC.

LCI Shows Support for Lung Cancer Research Funding at GO2 Voices Summit

It’s easy to think of scientific researchers as existing in a vacuum: spending long days and evenings in a laboratory, making observations that most people will probably never understand or hear about. But when it comes to blood cancer research, that couldn’t be less true.

Every study is a chance to make a breakthrough—one that could change, and save, the lives of patients and their families. That’s why The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) funds innovative 

. We know we need as many minds as possible to close the gap to a new treatment—or a cure.

And LLS is far from alone in that goal. 

, one of LLS’s trusted and valued partners, makes groundbreaking cancer research their highest priority. And as part of our 

 this year, LLS and Gilead and Kite Oncology are championing scientific breakthroughs like CAR-T cell therapy with “Innovation Celebrations."

“As the exclusive sponsor of the Innovation Celebrations, Gilead and Kite Oncology is honored to recognize patients who are living longer as a result of 

, and members of their support community. These celebrations serve as an opportunity for the CAR-T community to celebrate survivorship and align perfectly with our national presenting sponsorship of Celebration & Community for Light the Night,” said Chad Saward, Senior Director, Patient and Professional Relations, Kite, a Gilead Company.

These honorees’ lives have been changed, and saved, by research. More specifically, by a blood cancer treatment that’s come to the forefront of blood cancer research in the last three decades: CAR T-cell therapy.

https://lls.org/blog/bringing-together-car-t-cell-therapy-community

Blood cancer research is crucial for developing life-saving treatments, with organizations like The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and partners such as Gilead and Kite Oncology leading the charge. They emphasize the importance of innovative research, particularly CAR T-cell therapy, which has significantly impacted patient survival. Through events like "Innovation Celebrations," these organizations honor patients benefiting from CAR T-cell therapy and their support networks. Such initiatives highlight the collaborative efforts in the scientific community to advance cancer treatment and celebrate the progress made in blood cancer research.

It’s easy to think of scientific researchers as existing in a vacuum.

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