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)
Karen’s Fight, Eight Years and Counting
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)
Veteran Speaks Out to Save Others
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, Trillionaires Only, 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)
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.
Here are a few thoughts I hope will encourage you:
- 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.
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.
Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
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.
Emotional Support Changes Everything
Why Emotional Support and Mindset Matter More Than We Think
When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, the focus often turns immediately to medical treatment. But research continues to show that emotional support and a positive outlook can play a powerful role in long-term well-being and healing.
A study published in Psycho-oncology (2010) found that cancer survivors who received strong emotional support within three months of diagnosis experienced greater emotional health and post-traumatic growth even eight years later. The takeaway? Early support helps people make sense of their experience and fosters healing far beyond the treatment room.
Another study in Psychological Health (2016) revealed that patients with a generally positive disposition experienced less anxiety, depression, and impairment both at diagnosis and one year later. Their optimism didn’t deny the reality of illness—it helped them navigate it with more resilience.
Importantly, Psycho-oncology (2016) also emphasized the power of balance. Breast cancer patients who were able to “hold both hope and reality—expecting the best but preparing for the worst-” did better emotionally and functionally over time.
These studies all point to the same conclusion:
Positivity and meaningful support deeply impact how we experience cancer and how well we live through it.
Our ability to fight for life—to keep showing up with hope and purpose—comes from within, but it’s strengthened by faith, relationships, and the meaning we make in the face of suffering. It’s not about pretending everything is okay. It’s about walking through the valley with courage, supported and strengthened by those who walk with us.
Author- Dr. Sharon May
Psycho-oncology. (2010, January 19). Type of social support matters for prediction of post-traumatic growth among cancer survivors.
Psychological Health. (2016, May 31). Being positive despite illness: The contribution of positivity to the quality of life of cancer patients.
Psycho-oncology. (2016, August 25). Expecting the best and being prepared for the worst
Innovations Bring Hope to Lung Patients
New Lung Cancer Innovations Offering Hope to Patients
At Memorial Sloan Kettering, cutting-edge lung cancer care is changing lives—especially for those with advanced disease. Take Jen Cosgrove, a mother diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer that had spread. Thanks to precise testing, doctors found her tumor had an ALK gene mutation, which responds well to targeted therapy called alectinib. Jen saw dramatic improvements within days and has been able to share important milestones with her children she once feared missing. MSK’s expert care, innovative treatments, and thorough diagnostics give patients like Jen hope and more time with their loved ones.
New Discoveries in Lung Cancer Detection
MSK researchers are also uncovering new types of lung cancer and better ways to detect it early. For example, they identified a rare form called atypical small cell lung carcinoma in younger patients who never smoked. Early detection remains critical, and MSK is developing noninvasive tools like the “E-nose,” a device that detects cancer-related chemicals in breath, which could make screening easier and less stressful. Lab studies on lung stem cells and tumor growth help scientists understand how cancer starts and grows, leading to better treatments. For patients facing lung cancer, these advances mean earlier diagnosis, more personalized care, and brighter hope for the future. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering)
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Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
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Living Strong: Wendy’s Story
Wendy Lassen Feldman’s lung cancer diagnosis came after she insisted on scans despite her doctor’s initial doubts. Diagnosed in 2016 with stage 3 ROS1-positive lung cancer, Wendy faced her treatment with hope and determination. She underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery—all while maintaining her daily routines and fighting to stay strong for her children. Her medical team’s confidence that she would be alive in five years gave her vital encouragement during a difficult time.
Wendy’s message to others is clear: don’t give up. Lung cancer isn’t always a death sentence, and survival rates don’t define individual outcomes. She believes in embracing cancer as part of life without letting it control her. Inspired by the Lung Cancer Research Foundation’s dedication to research, Wendy actively supports their work, helping to fund advancements that bring new options and hope to lung cancer patients everywhere. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Living Well with Stage 4 Cancer: Stories of Hope
A stage 4 cancer diagnosis, where cancer has spread beyond the original site, can be frightening. But thanks to advances in treatments and supportive care, many people are living longer and maintaining a good quality of life. At Memorial Sloan Kettering, patients like LaDawn Jefferson, Dennis Flaherty, and Antonio Lekhrajmal have beaten the odds—returning to activities they love, from running marathons to creating art while managing their disease with personalized care.
Others, like Jacqueline Hickey, have found relief from symptoms such as pain through coordinated treatments that address metastatic cancer’s challenges. These stories show that with the right care and new therapies, people with advanced cancer can continue to live fully and find hope even in difficult times. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering)
Maureen’s Story: Too Busy for Cancer
Maureen’s lung cancer diagnosis came unexpectedly after a routine scan. Initially diagnosed at stage 1, her cancer progressed to stage 4 in late 2021, a moment that brought deep fear given her family history. Finding she had a KRAS mutation, Maureen became active in lung cancer communities supporting research specific to her cancer type. Motivated by the limited funding for lung cancer research, she began advocating for increased support by contacting lawmakers and raising awareness through events like the Free to Breathe Walk.
Today, Maureen embraces life fully, saying she’s “too busy for cancer.” Retired alongside her husband, she looks forward to being the nurse for her daughters when they have babies — a symbol of hope and life beyond cancer. Her story highlights the power of advocacy, community, and hope in the face of stage 4 lung cancer. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Tejal’s Story: Strength in the Fight
When Tejal Patel was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, it was a shock, especially since she never smoked and lives a healthy lifestyle. The diagnosis felt isolating, bringing confusion and stigma, as many still wrongly assume lung cancer is caused by lifestyle choices. But Tejal found determination in her fight—not just to live and watch her twin boys grow up, but also to raise awareness and break the stigma, especially for women like her in the South Asian community.
Tejal credits the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) for vital support and hope. Through funding life-changing research, including early detection methods and new treatments, LCRF is helping improve survival and quality of life for lung cancer patients. Tejal’s story is a powerful reminder that lung cancer can affect anyone and that ongoing research and community support are essential to keep advancing care and offering hope. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Not Done Living
When Gary W. was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, his life took a sharp turn—but he never let it stop him. Married for 44 years and retired at age 59, Gary was on a dream trip with his wife visiting U.S. National Parks when a lingering cough led to a life-changing diagnosis. Doctors found tumors in both lungs and confirmed a HER2-positive mutation. Today, he is thriving on Enhertu, a drug originally designed for breast cancer, and credits his stable health, his family, and his mindset for helping him stay active and optimistic. He walks daily, handles chores, travels, and says, “I live very much like a normal person.”
Gary’s story is a powerful reminder that lung cancer is not a dead end. With better treatments and more research happening every year, there is real hope for patients—even with stage 4 disease. His advice to others: don’t give up, stay informed, and know that there are more options than ever before. “I don’t ever want to stop living,” he says. “I was determined not to let lung cancer slow me down—if anything, it’s accelerated me.”
26 Years Living With Stage 4 Lung Cancer
When Wells W. was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 1998, doctors told him he had just 10 months to live. But Wells, a scientist by training, took charge of his care—researching treatments, getting second opinions, and joining a compassionate use trial for Iressa (gefitinib), a targeted therapy that matched his EGFR mutation. His tumors shrank enough for surgery, and he’s continued to live cancer-managed ever since.
Now 91, Wells has dedicated his life to lung cancer advocacy, co-founding GO2 for Lung Cancer and mentoring others facing the disease. His journey proves that even with a stage 4 diagnosis, hope, action, and long-term survival are possible. (Source: GO2 for Lung Cancer)
