Lung Cancer Advocates Make Their Mark at ASCO Conference 2025

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting held recently in Chicago showcased the inaugural LiveLung ASCO Scholars program, aimed at elevating the voices of lung cancer patients. This groundbreaking initiative, created by the nonprofit organization LiveLung, allowed six lung cancer patients and one care partner to gain first-hand experience at the world's largest oncology conference from May 30 to June 3, 2025.

With patient advocacy increasingly recognized as crucial in healthcare, particularly in cancer research, the program reflects a significant shift towards inclusivity in discussions about treatment and care options. Those involved were educated and prepared through a comprehensive six-week training program prior to attending the conference. This provided them with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complex environment of scientific discussions and presentations.

Among the participants were inspiring lung cancer survivors such as Leslie LaChance from Nashville, TN, Debbie Pickworth from Michigan, Maida Mangiameli from Illinois, and many more. One notable participant, Wendy Brooks, articulated her empowering experience: _“Attending ASCO for the first time was both overwhelming and empowering. Discovering that I'm part of groundbreaking research for Small Cell Lung Cancer was a milestone of hope I didn't expect.”_

Dr. Shirish Gadgeel, a medical oncologist from the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, pointed out the importance of patient advocacy. According to him, _“As we have made advances in the management of lung cancer, patient advocacy has become ever more critical.”_ His support highlights how programs like the LiveLung ASCO Scholars program can effectively bridge the knowledge gap between patients, researchers, clinicians, and the pharmaceutical industry.

In addition to attending sessions on cutting-edge research and treatment innovations, the scholars had the chance to share their experiences and aspirations for future lung cancer management. The initiative underscores the necessity of having patient perspectives inform both the direction of research and future treatment that clearly aligns with the needs of those affected by lung cancer.

LiveLung not only facilitated this unique opportunity for patients but also hosted an ASCO-sponsored advocacy booth to disseminate valuable educational resources for lung cancer patients. This aspect of the conference is vital for fostering a supportive community around lung cancer, emphasizing education that promotes awareness and engagement among patients, survivors, and care partners.

Dusty Donaldson, founder of LiveLung and a lung cancer survivor with over 20 years of experience, expressed enthusiasm about the event: _“The annual ASCO conference is always a highlight of my year, but being able to bring so many others to their first ASCO made this year more special than ever.”_

The LiveLung initiative, in its mission, continues to advance lung cancer education and improve health outcomes through community engagement and advocacy efforts. By hosting a network of educational community lung cancer patient groups and providing resource bags to newly diagnosed patients, LiveLung aims to foster a more informed and empowered patient community. For further details about their initiatives, you can visit their website at LiveLung.

In summary, the Lung Cancer Advocates at ASCO program marks a pivotal moment for lung cancer advocacy, blending patient experiences with scientific innovation to shape the future of oncology care. Attendees not only gained access to essential research findings but also shared in the collective hope of advancing lung cancer treatment pathways that truly reflect patient needs.