Bryan Health will host its annual Shine a Light on Lung Cancer event tonight at the April Sampson Cancer Center, in effort to commemorate November as Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
The evening program begins at 6 p.m. and will feature a panel of physicians and survivors sharing their stories and insights, including Auburn native Kimberly Buchmeier, who has now been cancer-free for 14 years after being diagnosed with non-small cell adenocarcinoma in 2011.
“I was 37 years old, healthy, and a non-smoker,” Buchmeier said. “They found it early, I was stage 1B, and I had surgery to remove the lower right lobe of my lung followed by chemotherapy. Fourteen years later, I’m still cancer-free. Hallelujah.”
Buchmeier said she plans to walk attendees through her journey—from diagnosis and treatment to her work in lung cancer advocacy, including years of traveling to Washington, D.C. to push for early screening access and research funding.
“I’ve met a lot of young women like me who never thought lung cancer could happen to them,” she said. “If you’ve got lungs and you’re breathing, you can get lung cancer. That’s why we have to keep pushing for awareness and screening.”
She said one of the most common misconceptions is that lung cancer only affects older smokers, when in reality, many younger nonsmokers are also diagnosed each year. Her message for Nebraskans: be proactive about your health.
“You have to be your biggest advocate,” Buchmeier said. “If something doesn’t feel right, keep asking questions. Don’t be afraid to request tests or screenings.”
The free community event includes refreshments, educational booths, and demonstrations before the main program. Activities begin at 5 p.m. and feature displays such as a giant inflatable lung exhibit, a robotic bronchoscopy simulator, and booths hosted by Bryan, Cancer Partners of Nebraska, and The Spa.
Buchmeier said she’s excited to return to share her story alongside local physicians, including pulmonologist Dr. Matt Maslonka, cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Ryan Shelstad, and oncologist Dr. Irfan Vaziri.
“It’s a great place to learn, listen, and find support,” she said. “Treatments have come such a long way…even in just the 14 years since my diagnosis.”
The event takes place at April Sampson Cancer Center, 4101 Tiger Lily Road. Those interested can learn more at bryanhealth.org/shinealight.