Welcome to the Lung Cancer
Totem Pole
“The Spirit of Hope, Resilience,
Strength, Courage…”
The Lung Cancer “Sprit of Hope” Totem Pole is a powerful symbol of recognition that celebrates and acknowledges the resilience of those who have battled lung cancer and emerged victorious. It stands as a testament that individuals with lung cancer are living longer and healthier lives today, thanks to new therapies and increased rates of lung cancer screening.
Native Americans believe everyone is connected to different animals that accompany them through life, acting as guides. We invite you to visit the Lung Cancer “Spirit of Hope” Totem pole and hover over the spirit animals to read stories of inspiration and hope. By engaging with this installation, you can learn more about the progress in lung cancer treatment and the stories of those who have found strength, courage, resilience and inspiration in their journey.
Are you a survivor? Click here to join!
Lynn
I had no risk factors. I never used tobacco products. I choose the hummingbird as I am a peer mentor for newly diagnosed survivors. I am working to increase the awareness that those who never smoked can get lung cancer.
Sherry
As a never-smoker being diagnosed with lung cancer is a shock. I chose the butterfly as my spirit animal because it represents transformation. Going through difficult times I've emerged stronger and better than before.
Joan
with stage 3b and given surviving time frame of max 2 years. Only symptoms were swelling of neck and pain in shoulder. A friend said to me “you should have it checked could be a sign of lung cancer. Cat is independent, never give up, smart, caring and loving,
Rosemary
My spirit animal is a wolf. Wolves are skilled hunters and communicators. Since my diagnosis of NSCLC, I have continued to hunt for treatments and to communicate in a variety of ways with others dealing with this diagnosis. Persistence and patience have been my mottos.
Amy
I had the courage to fight through bone metastases and broken bone pain...through treatment side effects...
I was determined to live...
I focused on the future...
I felt confident that my medical team would find a treatment that would work for me...
6 years later as Stage 4, I'm thriving...
Terry
I was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer stage 3B attached to my heart. I had my left lung removed the cancer detach from my heart chemo and radiation and I am now a 21 year survivor.
Jennifer
I was diagnosed with stage 4, EGFR positive non small cell lung cancer at the age of 48. I was prescribed a targeted medication, Tagrisso, which I am happy to say has kept me stable for over 5 years, now ! My zodiac sign is a crab and I love the beach !
Heidi
I was diagnosed with stage IIIA NSCLC. Founder of the White Ribbon Project which seeks to encourage lung cancer survivors and advocates to mobilize efforts to increase awareness about lung cancer, change the public perception of the disease, and work to help improve prevention, early detection, and treatment of lung cancer.