Susan Smedley, National Manager, Grassroots and Endurance Events

At the age of 32, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. I was a new mom to my then 11-month-old daughter and my world turned upside down.

After years of being misdiagnosed with asthma and chronic fatigue, I decided to take my health into my own hands by seeking acupuncture and alternative medicine. I decided to try a cupping treatment to help with my breathing and coughed up blood afterwards. I was sent home twice with an inhaler after clear X-rays. Finally, I received a bronchoscope which led to my diagnosis and thoracotomy.

I began my work as a lung cancer advocate 10 years ago, after being asked to speak at a local fundraiser. Up until that point, I knew I was lucky to still be alive but hadn’t educated myself on the larger issue. Once I stepped into the world of lung cancer advocacy, and learned about the inequity in funding and the impact of stigma, I got angry and wanted to be a voice for those who weren’t as lucky as I had been.

Susan with her daughter, post-surgery.

When I was diagnosed, we didn’t know about genetic mutations or their role in developing targeted treatments. Everyone was given chemotherapy, if they were offered treatment at all, and there was very little hope. From volunteering as a survivor speaker and fundraiser, to becoming a full-time staff member with GO2 for Lung Cancer, I have seen incredible changes in treatment options and the impact they have on people’s lives. To be part of a national community that has been misunderstood and largely ignored is incredible. “Patients first” isn’t just a refrain. I see it in action all throughout the organization, which is why I am here.

I love working with our supporters through Independent Fundraisers and our Endurance Events program, and seeing people turn their passion into progress for the lung cancer community. No matter what your interests or strengths are, there are so many ways to give back to this amazing community.

Our endurance fundraising program, which I work most closely with, offers individuals the opportunity to gain access to a “bucket list” race like the NYC Half Marathon, or a marathon in California wine country. Many are seasoned runners, and others are first time marathoners. I love supporting people to do something that is out of their comfort zone! Almost everyone is hesitant about fundraising at first, but they are all drawn to a challenge as it helps them process the impact lung cancer has had on their lives. Running is cathartic, and when you combine fundraising with that, it is incredibly powerful.

In addition to our endurance events, we also have our family-friendly walk/run events in cities across the country. Take a look at our events calendar to see when we’ll be in a city near you! If an athletic event isn’t your thing, Susan can also help you create a fundraiser that is meaningful to you. Email her at ssmedley@go2.org.