#USA #Washington, D.C. #LUNGevity Foundation #lung cancer awareness #Every Breath Forward

LUNGevity Foundation Launches Every Breath Forward℠ for Lung Cancer Awareness

This November marks a significant moment for the LUNGevity Foundation as it announces the launch of the Every Breath Forward℠ movement. This nationwide initiative aims to honor individuals who have lost their lives to lung cancer while rallying support for advancements in research, screening, and access to treatment.

A Call to Action

With lung cancer being the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., it's imperative to increase awareness and encourage participation in early detection initiatives. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, the foundation will install 60,000 white flags on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., each flag symbolizing two of the over 120,000 annual lung cancer deaths. This poignant visual seeks to unify communities across the nation in remembrance and advocacy, contributing to a broader conversation around lung cancer awareness and support.

The National Mall Installation

The centerpiece of the campaign takes place on November 1, when volunteers will gather to plant flags symbolizing the lives affected by this disease. Alongside this installation, a Survivor Rally will be held to honor those who have overcome lung cancer and to amplify calls for greater investment in lung cancer research and awareness. Andrea Ferris, President and CEO of LUNGevity Foundation, expressed the sentiment beautifully: “Every flag honors a person who was loved and a family whose life has been changed by lung cancer.” This initiative not only commemorates lives lost but also encourages action to save more lives through early detection and improved treatment options.

Expanding the Movement Across the Country

In addition to the National Mall display, similar flag installations will occur in various cities including:

• - Denver, Colorado, on November 1, in partnership with The White Ribbon Project and CU Anschutz Cancer Center.
• - Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on November 5, in collaboration with the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative.
• - Jackson, Mississippi, on November 6.
• - Tampa, Florida, on November 7.
• - Raleigh, North Carolina, on November 8.
• - Boston, Massachusetts, on November 11.
• - San Francisco, California, on November 14, in association with GO2 for Lung Cancer.

These installations serve as pivotal points for local communities to engage in conversations about lung cancer early detection, inspiring individuals to seek out screening and support for others.

Getting Involved

The Every Breath Forward movement isn’t just for those attending installations; it’s an opportunity for everyone across the country to participate. Individuals are encouraged to create their own displays in their communities, showing support and honoring those affected by lung cancer. Whether planting flags, making virtual dedications, or sharing personal stories on social media, these actions help build a powerful network of support for lung cancer awareness.

Moreover, with participation from sponsors like Boehringer Ingelheim, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson, the initiative has garnered substantial backing to ensure its success.

About LUNGevity Foundation

LUNGevity Foundation is at the forefront of transforming the narrative surrounding lung cancer. As the largest nonprofit funder of lung cancer research in the United States, their efforts span across research, advocacy, and patient support, fostering an environment where progress can thrive. By ensuring that scientific discovery aligns with patient needs, LUNGevity is committed to making a significant impact in the fight against lung cancer.

Conclusion

As November unfolds, the Every Breath Forward movement brings hope and resolution, uniting communities to stand together against lung cancer. For more information on how to participate or learn about upcoming installations, visit EveryBreathForward.org.

This November, let’s dedicate our efforts to honor those we’ve lost, support those currently battling the disease, and advocate for continued progress in lung cancer research and treatment.