New Clues on How Cancer Spreads
New Clues on Cancer Metastasis: How “Shape-Shifting” Cells Spread and Survive
With new cancer metastasis research, scientists are uncovering how cancer cells spread, hide, and return, offering new hope for treatments that may stop cancer progression and improve survival.
Understanding the Biggest Challenge in Cancer
For decades, doctors have known that cancer’s deadliest threat is not the original tumor, it is metastasis, the process by which cancer spreads to other parts of the body. In fact, up to 90% of cancer-related deaths are linked to metastatic disease.
But what exactly is happening inside the body when cancer spreads?
What Is Metastatic Cancer?
Metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread from its original (primary) location to another part of the body. This process is called metastasis.
Even after spreading, cancer is still named after where it started. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the liver, it is still called metastatic breast cancer, not liver cancer.
Metastasis occurs when cancer cells:
- Break away from the original tumor
- Travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system
- Settle in a new organ or tissue
- Begin forming new tumors
This ability to spread and grow in new environments is what makes metastatic cancer more complex to treat, but ongoing research is changing what is possible.
Metastasis Definition
Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumor to distant parts of the body, forming new tumors in other organs or tissues.
New Research: How Cancer Cells “Shape-Shift” and Survive
Researchers led by Dr. Joan Massagué at Memorial Sloan Kettering are uncovering important insights into how metastatic cancer cells behave.
These cells are not static. Instead, they are incredibly adaptable.
Scientists have discovered that metastatic cells can:
- “Shape-shift” into more flexible, stem-like states
- Travel back to earlier developmental stages to survive
- Adapt to new environments in different organs
- Evade the immune system
- Enter a dormant (inactive) state for years
This means cancer cells can essentially “hide” in the body, sometimes for long periods, before reactivating and forming new tumors.
Where Can Cancer Spread in the Body?
Cancer does not spread to just one location. While some areas are more common than others, metastatic cancer can travel to multiple parts of the body.
Common sites of metastasis include:
- Liver
- Bones
- Lungs
- Brain
- Lymph nodes
- Peritoneum (abdominal lining)
Different cancers tend to spread in predictable patterns:
- Breast cancer often spreads to bones, liver, lungs, or brain
- Lung cancer may spread to the brain, liver, or bones
- Colorectal cancer commonly spreads to the liver
Understanding where cancer spreads helps guide treatment and monitoring strategies.
Metastatic Cancer Life Expectancy
Life expectancy with metastatic cancer varies widely depending on several factors, including:
- The type of cancer
- Where it has spread
- How the cancer responds to treatment
- Overall health
While metastatic cancer is considered advanced, outcomes are improving. Some individuals live for many years with ongoing treatment and supportive care.
Stage 4 Metastatic Cancer Survival Rate
Survival rates are based on large groups of people and cannot predict individual outcomes. However, they help provide general context.
Today, survival rates are improving due to:
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapies
- Personalized treatment approaches
Many patients are living longer and maintaining a higher quality of life than ever before.
Why These New Discoveries Matter
The research from Memorial Sloan Kettering is helping scientists understand not just that cancer spreads, but how it spreads and survives.
By uncovering how cancer cells:
- Change form
- Hide in dormant states
- Adapt to different organs
Researchers can begin to develop treatments that:
- Target hidden cancer cells
- Prevent metastasis from occurring
- Reduce the risk of recurrence
- Improve long-term survival
This represents a major shift, from simply treating tumors to interrupting the metastatic process itself.
Dr. Massagué emphasizes that metastasis is no longer automatically viewed as a final stage without options. With ongoing advances in research and treatment, controlling, and in some cases even overcoming, stage 4 cancer is becoming more possible.
Continued Progress in Cancer Treatment
As scientists learn more about metastasis, they are also rethinking how treatments are delivered.
Researchers are exploring:
- More precise drug dosing strategies
- Treatments that reduce side effects
- Therapies that patients can tolerate long-term
These advancements aim to help patients stay on treatment longer while maintaining quality of life.
Learn more about optimal cancer drug dosing and why “optimal” can matter more than “maximum.”
Read the complete article here >
As cancer screening evolves, researchers are also rethinking how cancer drugs are dosed to reduce side effects and help patients stay on therapy. Learn more about optimal cancer drug dosing and why “optimal” can matter more than “maximum.”
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like cancer metastasis research, including new findings on how metastasis works, mechanisms like dormancy and “shape-shifting” behavior—and how this research could inform future treatments. Join our community to connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Learn about Hope from Metastasis Research.
Future of Cancer Screening Shows Hope
Future of Cancer Screening: Multi-Cancer Early Detection Brings New Hope
Most cancers are still found late because only five types—colon, cervical, breast, lung, and prostate—have routine screening. A new direction called multi-cancer early detection (MCED) aims to spot cancers with a single test. Instead of hunting for tiny, hard-to-find tumor DNA fragments in the blood, researchers are building tiny “sensors” that circulate in the body and switch on when they meet enzymes made by early cancer cells. These sensors release a synthetic marker that shows up clearly in samples like urine, creating a much stronger, earlier signal than traditional tests in preclinical studies.
Why it matters: this approach could make screening simpler, more accurate, and more accessible—potentially even via low-cost strips for clinics with limited resources—and may help catch hard-to-find cancers (including lung cancer) sooner, when treatment works best. Logic-based sensor designs (think an “AND” gate requiring multiple cancer signals) may reduce false alarms, and early clinical use could include tracking treatment response or watching for recurrence. Safety testing is still ahead, but progress is rapid. If successful, MCED could shift many diagnoses from late-stage to early-stage—and offer hope and options for people living with or at risk for advanced disease. (Source: MIT Technology Review)
Read the complete article here >
As researchers work to detect cancer earlier through multi-cancer early detection (MCED), they’re also uncovering new insights into what happens when cancer spreads. Cancer metastasis research is revealing how “shape-shifting” cells can hide, adapt, and return—helping explain why some cancers come back years later and pointing to new treatment possibilities. Read New Clues on Cancer Metastasis: How “Shape-Shifting” Cells Spread and Survive to learn more.
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like cancer metastasis research and emerging cancer screening advances, including multi-cancer early detection (MCED), preclinical findings, AI screening, theranostics, and what’s next before clinical use. Join our community to connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Hiking Through Stage 4 Cancer
Hiking Through Stage 4 Lung Cancer: Gerri’s Story of Strength and Hope
When Gerri was first told she had stage 4 lung cancer with an EGFR mutation, it felt like her world had flipped upside down. An active athlete and tennis pro, she never expected such a diagnosis. But instead of giving in to fear, she chose a path of strength and hope—continuing to hike, kayak, ski, and travel the world with her husband by her side. Just weeks after starting targeted therapy, she hiked 90 miles in Patagonia, a trip she once thought might never happen.
With the support of her family, her oncologist, and a caring social worker, Gerri has embraced both treatment and life’s adventures. She quilts for others, practices qigong, and continues to cross items off her bucket list—now on her second one. For her, lung cancer is only part of the story, not the definition of who she is. Her message to others is clear: keep moving, keep dreaming, and make plans for joy. “Control what you can,” she says, “and live fully with what you’ve been given.”
(Source: Gerri Allen, Lung Cancer Survivor Blog)
Read the complete article here >
Stay Connected with Stage 4 Hope
Hear more stories like Gerri’s—her journey hiking through stage 4 lung cancer—and other late-stage lung cancer stories from people living with cancer. Discover information on treatments, clinical trials, symptom management, and real stories from others on the same journey. Join our community to stay informed with the latest research updates, upcoming retreats, and educational events.
Living Fully: Joanne’s Cancer Journey
Living Fully with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Joanne’s Story of Hope and Healing
When Joanne was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in 2021, she couldn’t help but ask the same question many patients face: “Why me?” She had lived a healthy lifestyle, exercised, and avoided processed foods, yet found herself retracing her past for answers—secondhand smoke in childhood, brief years of social smoking, exposure to environmental toxins, stress, or perhaps random chance. Her pathology revealed an EGFR mutation, a genetic change often seen in people with little or no smoking history, which allowed her to begin targeted therapy after surgery and chemotherapy.
Over time, Joanne realized that focusing on blame only robs her of peace. Instead, she has chosen to center her life around gratitude, faith, and the love of her husband and community. With new advances in treatment, she believes lung cancer should no longer be viewed as an automatic death sentence or a punishment tied to smoking. Through sharing her story, Joanne hopes to break the stigma, reminding us that compassion and understanding—not judgment—are what every patient deserves. (Source: Joanne Gaget Blog)
Read the complete article here >
Stay Connected with Stage 4 Hope
Hear more stories like Joanne’s story of hope and healing after she was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in 2021—and other late-stage lung cancer stories from people living with cancer. Discover information on treatments, clinical trials, symptom management, and real stories from others on the same journey. Join our community to stay informed with the latest research updates, upcoming retreats, and educational events.
Yoga, Meditation, and More Bring Relief
Yoga, Meditation, and Integrative Medicine Ease Cancer Treatment Side Effects
A new clinical trial shows that live, online classes in yoga, meditation, tai chi, and fitness can do more than just help patients feel calmer — they can actually reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. Patients who joined these virtual integrative medicine sessions during chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy reported less fatigue, anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping. Remarkably, they also needed fewer hospital stays, and when they were admitted, their time in the hospital was much shorter.
This approach, offered through Memorial Sloan Kettering’s Integrative Medicine at Home program, costs $25 per month and is available to patients anywhere — not just those treated at MSK. Many patients find the classes give them both physical strength and emotional support by connecting with others going through cancer. Other services like acupuncture and music therapy can also play a role in making treatment more tolerable. Research continues to grow, with hopes of expanding access nationwide. For patients and caregivers, these integrative therapies provide a safe, evidence-based way to feel stronger and more supported throughout cancer treatment.
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage4Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like yoga and integrative therapy—and how friendship, community, and a positive mindset can make all the difference in your journey. Join our community to connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Riding Through Cancer: Christy’s Story
Riding My Harley Through Cancer: Christy’s Stage 4 Lung Cancer Story
From riding her Harley to competing in strongman events, Christy’s journey shows how hope and targeted therapy can make life after diagnosis possible.
When Christy Erickson was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at just 41, she feared she wouldn’t see her children grow up. After months of unanswered questions and second opinions, genetic testing showed her tumor had an EGFR mutation. That result opened the door to a targeted therapy called osimertinib. The treatment gave her more time with her family and the chance to live fully, not just survive.
A Turning Point: Genetic Testing and Targeted Therapy
Genetic testing revealed that Christy Erickson’s lung cancer carried an EGFR mutation, making her eligible for osimertinib—a targeted therapy supported by years of clinical research. Although she wasn’t enrolled in the pivotal trial, she directly benefited from the breakthroughs that helped make the treatment widely available. Osimertinib (brand name Tagrisso) is an oral targeted therapy (an EGFR inhibitor) used for certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations (such as exon 19 deletions or L858R). It works by blocking overactive epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR), which can help slow or stop cancer cell growth; common side effects may include diarrhea, skin changes, and low blood counts.
(Source: Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University)
Read the complete article here >
Stay Connected with Stage 4 Hope
Hear more stories like Christy’s—riding her Harley after being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at just 41, daring to dream and continuing to live on her terms—and other late-stage lung cancer stories from people living with cancer. Discover information on treatments, clinical trials, symptom management, and real stories from others on the same journey. Join our community to stay informed with the latest research updates, upcoming retreats, and educational events.
References:
1. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/osimertinib
Second Opinions Can Save Lives
Why Getting a Second Opinion for Cancer Can Save Your Life
Being told you have cancer is overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel pressured to start treatment right away. But getting a second opinion can make a huge difference—it may confirm the diagnosis, catch mistakes, or suggest new treatment options. For patients with stage 4 or hard-to-treat lung cancer, this extra step can open the door to advanced therapies and clinical trials not available everywhere.
Specialists at National Cancer Institute-designated centers look deeper than a single test. They review scans, biopsy slides, and genetic testing to match you with the best targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Many doctors welcome second opinions, and sometimes both teams can work together—giving you more support, not less.
Most importantly, a second opinion can give you peace of mind. Knowing your diagnosis and plan have been double-checked helps you move forward with confidence and focus on what matters most: your care and your life. (Source: Winship Magazine)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about practical guidance that can shape treatment decisions, like getting a second opinion and working with specialists. Explore genetic testing and treatment options such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. Join our community to connect with others who understand your experience.
Karen’s Fight, Eight Years and Counting
From Remission to Recurrence: Karen’s Stage 4 Lung Cancer Journey
Karen’s lung cancer returned after eight clear years. Now living with stage 4 lung cancer, she shares how research advances and new treatments are giving patients more time and hope.
When Karen was first diagnosed with lung cancer at age 47, it came as a complete shock. A healthy, never-smoker with no family history, she suddenly found herself facing surgery to remove part of her lung and rounds of chemotherapy. For eight years her scans were clear, until the cancer returned in her ribs. Now living with stage 4 lung cancer, she is facing this new challenge with the same determination she had at the very beginning.
What gives Karen strength is the progress that’s been made in lung cancer research. Eight years ago, her mutation wasn’t even identifiable. Today, doctors not only know what it is, but there are already FDA-approved treatments available. Karen continues to live life fully—biking, traveling, taking classes—and believes every patient deserves to feel this hopeful. Her story is a powerful reminder that advances in treatment are giving people more options, more time, and more hope than ever before. (Source: Karen V. Blog)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Read more stage 4 lung cancer stories and other aspects of living with late-stage cancer. Join our community and gain access to resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran Speaks Out to Save Others
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran: Xavier Sanders Fights for Awareness
Xavier Sanders spent 14 years proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force. But in 2022, his life changed when doctors discovered stage 4 lung cancer—despite never smoking. The cancer had already spread to his liver and brain. Now, Xavier is using his voice to speak out about the urgent need for earlier detection, better support, and more awareness—especially for service members exposed to burn pits and toxic chemicals during deployment.
He’s not just fighting for himself. Xavier is advocating for younger airmen who may not know what symptoms to watch for or how to get the right care. His wife, Chelsea, has become his strongest advocate—reminding others that “mental toughness” can sometimes hide real suffering. Together, they’re pushing for change in how military members with cancer are seen, heard, and supported.
Now a passionate advocate, Xavier is using his story and his brand, to inspire others to fight with authenticity, courage, and hope. “Every day is a new day to fight,” he says. “We can’t afford to stay quiet.” (Source: Xavier’s Story, March 2024)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Read more stage 4 lung cancer veteran stories, early detection and lung cancer in non-smokers.
Join our community to access resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers
Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers: The Truth, the Science, and Stories of Hope
Lung cancer is often treated like a “smoker’s disease,” but that stereotype is outdated—and it’s hurting people. Many patients have never smoked, and women under 65 are now seeing higher incidence rates than men in some age groups. What’s behind these cases? Often, the answer is biology: genetic mutations that can drive lung cancer even without traditional risk factors.
In this post, we’ll cover what’s driving lung cancer in nonsmokers (including RET-positive lung cancer and EGFR mutations), why stigma matters, what genetic testing can uncover, and how real patients are finding hope through research, advocacy, and community.
The Truth About Lung Cancer: It’s Not Just a Smoker’s Disease1
Lung cancer still carries a painful stigma. Many patients report feeling blamed or judged—by friends, family, and even medical professionals—because people assume smoking caused their disease. But anyone with lungs can get lung cancer, and no one deserves to be blamed for a diagnosis.
That stigma can do real harm. It’s been associated with delayed care, higher rates of depression, and lower screening rates—despite the fact that screening can catch lung cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective. Shifting the narrative matters: lung cancer is a health issue, not a moral failing.
Lung Cancer in Women and Nonsmokers: What to Know2
Lung cancer diagnoses are declining overall, but a growing number of cases are being found in people who don’t fit the “typical” image—especially younger women and nonsmokers.
One reason some cases are missed or delayed is misdiagnosis. Younger nonsmoking women are sometimes told symptoms are asthma, bronchitis, or allergies, which can cost precious time. If you feel something is wrong, trust yourself. Persistent symptoms deserve follow-up, regardless of age or smoking history.
What’s Driving Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers?3
For many nonsmokers, lung cancer is driven by genetic mutations—changes inside cancer cells that help tumors grow. These are not the same as inherited risk (though inherited factors can play a role). Instead, they’re often tumor biomarkers that guide treatment.
This is why genetic testing (also called biomarker testing or molecular testing) is so important—especially for people with advanced lung cancer. It helps doctors match a patient to targeted therapy, which may be more effective and sometimes better tolerated than standard approaches alone.
Understanding RET-Positive Lung Cancer
One mutation that can drive lung cancer in nonsmokers is a RET fusion. RET-positive lung cancer is more common in never-smokers and can occur in younger patients, including women. It also may not show up through routine screening, which makes awareness and appropriate testing even more important.
Why it matters: If a tumor is RET-positive, a patient may be eligible for targeted treatments designed specifically to block RET-driven cancer growth. That can change the entire treatment plan—and outcomes.
Takeaway: If you or a loved one is diagnosed with lung cancer—especially stage 4 or hard-to-treat disease—ask your care team about biomarker testing early.
(Source: American Cancer Society, Yale Medicine, J Clin Oncol)
Read the complete article here
EGFR and Other Mutations: Why Testing Can Change Everything5
Mutations like EGFR are also more common in women and are seen at higher rates in certain populations, including Asian women. These biomarkers can open the door to targeted therapies that are specifically designed for cancers driven by those mutations.
The bottom line: lung cancer treatment is becoming more personalized. But personalization starts with testing.
How Research Is Accelerating Answers: The Lung Cancer Genetics Study6
A powerful genetics study is bringing hope to people facing lung cancer—especially nonsmokers and those with rare mutations. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is collecting patient genetic and clinical data to help researchers:
- identify patterns in lung cancer among nonsmokers
- accelerate discoveries for rare mutations
- support more personalized treatment approaches
As more people participate and more data becomes available, researchers can move faster—and patients benefit from better-informed care.
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: Survivor & Patient Stories
Scientific progress matters—but so do stories. Real people are living proof that the lung cancer narrative is bigger than stigma.
From Remission to Recurrence: Karen’s Stage 4 Lung Cancer Journey
Karen was diagnosed with lung cancer at 47—a healthy, never-smoker with no family history—and after surgery, chemo, and eight clear years of scans, her cancer returned and became stage 4. Strengthened by new breakthroughs in lung cancer research, she continues to live fully. Karen’s story is a reminder that advances in treatment are giving patients more options, more time, and more hope.
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran: Xavier Fights for Awareness
Air Force veteran Xavier Sanders was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer despite never smoking. He’s raising awareness about burn pit exposure, early detection, and support for service members. He’s not just fighting for himself. Xavier is advocating for younger airmen who may not know what symptoms to watch for or how to get the right care.
What You Can Do: Advocate for Yourself or Someone You Love
If you’re concerned about symptoms or navigating a diagnosis, these steps can help:
- Don’t dismiss persistent symptoms—especially a cough that won’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pressure, or unexplained weight loss
- Ask about lung cancer screening if you’re eligible
- If diagnosed, request biomarker testing early (RET, EGFR, and other drivers)
- Ask your doctor about targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials when appropriate
- Seek community—support improves coping, confidence, and follow-through with care
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like lung cancer in nonsmokers by joining our community. Connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to trusted resources, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
References:
- https://www.mskcc.org/news/understanding-stigma-lung-cancer
- https://www.mskcc.org/news/lung-cancer-in-women-and-nonsmokers-what-to-know-about-symptoms-diagnosis-and-treatment
- https://happylungsproject.org/lung-cancer-risk-factors-understanding-its-causes-and-prevention/
Friendship During Cancer
The Power of Friendship When Facing Cancer
When you’re walking through something as overwhelming as cancer, one of the most powerful lifelines you can hold onto is this: you don’t have to walk it alone.
I’m Dr. Sharon May with Stage4Hope, and I want to share two important truths backed by research—and rooted in real-life experience—that can bring you comfort and strength:
- Good friends truly matter.
- A positive mindset can make all the difference.
We already know that going through something difficult with a friend by your side makes it easier. But science now confirms this truth in a profound way. In Dr. James Coan’s research, people were given mild electric shocks—yes, you read that right!—but when they held the hand of someone they deeply cared about, the stress response in their brain significantly decreased. The pain was more bearable simply because someone they loved was there.
That’s the power of presence.
Another powerful study published in Psycho-oncology (2010) followed cancer survivors for eight years. They found that those who received meaningful emotional support just three months after their diagnosis experienced post-traumatic growth—they were better emotionally, mentally, and spiritually years later. Support doesn’t just help in the moment—it shapes how you move through your cancer journey and who you become on the other side.
So what does this mean for you? It means you need people. And they need you, too.
How to stay connected with friends during cancer?
- Reach out to two or three friends. Keep those friendships going. Be intentional. Let the conversation be mutual—yes, talk about your cancer journey, but also listen your friend’s everyday stories. Friendship flows both ways.
- Join a group. If you didn’t have many close connections at the start of your journey, it’s never too late. A support group creates a place to belong, to connect, and to share with people who understand. You can also begin by joining one of our virtual women’s retreats. With gentle teaching and encouraging community you will find friendship and strength for your journey.
- Teach your friends how to walk this road with you. It’s okay to tell them what’s helpful and what’s not. Sometimes they won’t know what to say—help them out. You’ll learn together.
- Teach your family how to be there with you. This journey is difficult for both you and your family. Your family will go between grief for you and grief for themselves. Which means your spouse or children will, at times, struggle with their own emotions of fears, anger, depression, loss and grief. And for certain your family will not always say the most comforting things nor be there the way you hope. They will probably disappoint you leaving you hurt and maybe alone. Families are complicated, but now is the time to let go of resentment and small irritations. Make an effort to be there for each other, one struggle at a time, one day at a time. If it gets too complicated, reach out for professional help from a counselor or relationship coach.
- Keep being you. Cancer may be part of your story right now, but it is not the whole story. You are still you—funny, strong, sensitive, quirky, wise. Hold onto your identity and let it shine in your relationships.
- Stay connected to your world. You still have a family, a neighborhood, hobbies and routines. Keep participating in what makes life rich and meaningful. You have so much to give—and receive.
- Don’t isolate. This is the hardest part for some. But I gently encourage you: risk reaching out. Let someone be there for you. Hold someone’s hand—literally or figuratively. It truly makes a difference.
Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
I’m cheering you on, friend. You are not alone. And here at Stage4Hope, we’re walking alongside you every step of the way.
If you’re looking for connection, encouragement, and growth, I invite you to join our upcoming women’s virtual retreat. It’s a time to rest, be renewed, and find community with other brave women walking their own journeys.
Author- Dr. Sharon May
The Importance of Social Support and Being Positive When Facing Cancer
- (2010, January 19). Type of social support matters for prediction of post-traumatic growth among cancer survivors.
- Coan, J.A., Schaefer, H.S., & Davidson, R.J. (2006). Lending a hand: Social regulation of the neural response to threat. Psychological Science.
Genetics Study Brings Lung Cancer Hope
Lung Cancer Genetics Study: New Hope Through Genetic Research
Learn how the Lung Cancer Genetics Study is collecting patient genetic and clinical data to accelerate discoveries, support personalized treatment, and bring new hope to families facing lung cancer.
A powerful new genetics study is offering fresh hope in the fight against lung cancer — especially for patients with rare mutations and those who’ve never smoked. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study, launched in 2024 by 23andMe and supported by nearly two dozen patient advocacy groups, is collecting genetic and clinical data from thousands of lung cancer patients to help uncover what drives this complex disease. It’s one of the first efforts of its kind to truly center patient voices from the beginning, ensuring that research reflects real-world experiences.
The project began with a friendship between two women living with lung cancer, Ilana Stromberg and Susan Troper Wojcicki, both mothers of five and determined to make a difference. Motivated by the lack of research and funding for lung cancer, especially RET-positive and other biomarker-driven subtypes, they envisioned a national lung cancer registry that could drive discoveries and lead to better, more personalized treatments. Susan’s passing in 2024 makes the study even more meaningful to those involved. Her legacy lives on through this groundbreaking initiative, which is expected to accelerate research and give families facing lung cancer a renewed sense of hope. (Source: 23andMe Blog)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like lung cancer genetics study by joining our community. Connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to trusted resources, upcoming events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
