Bryan Health will be shining the light on lung cancer on Monday, November 18 at the April Sampson Cancer Center. The event is in collaboration with Cancer Partners of Nebraska, Bryan Heart and Nebraska Pulmonary Specialties.
Danielle Henricksen is the director of the cancer center and says Shine a Light on Lung Cancer is a free, community-based event held every November during Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The annual campaign is part of an effort to honor survivors, raise awareness and provide hope and inspiration to those impacted by the disease.
The program begins at 6:00 p.m. and will include an open house with support and resources available for patients. It will also feature a story from from a lung cancer survivor and remarks from doctors with expertise in diagnosing and treating the disease.
“Treatment has come a long way and survival rates are improving year after year,” Henricksen says. According to the American Cancer Society lung cancer is the deadliest form of cancer in the United States. The ACS estimates that over 230,000 people will be diagnosed this year, with over half dying from the disease.
54-year-old Tom Uhlman is a farmer from Claytonia and started experiencing symptoms earlier this year that weren’t part of his normal health. Tests revealed a diagnosis of metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer, the most common type of lung cancer diagnosis.
After meeting with his oncologist, Uhlman’s tumor tests identified a mutation that could be targeted with an oral medication. About 60% of lung cancer mutations now have an oral treatment option.
The medications work differently than other types of cancer treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Uhlman has seen success with the regimen. His symptoms have subsided, allowing him to stay active and in the field.
To learn more and RSVP for the event click here or call the Bryan Cancer Program at (402) 481-7900.