Experts, Patients Gather to Help Wisconsinites Who Suffer from Lung Disease

(October 5, 2017) -

Every five minutes, a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed with lung cancer. In Wisconsin, there are more than 779,000 people who suffer from lung disease, including more than 4,280 who battle lung cancer. 

That’s why on November 16, patients and experts will gather in Brookfield at the LUNG FORCE Expo to present the latest research and resources, and connect people who are impacted by lung disease. The LUNG FORCE Expo is a program designed for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers to learn more about the latest trends, resources and research surrounding lung cancer, COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. 

Two tracks will be offered, one for medical professionals and another for patients and their caregivers.

“This event is a gathering of the best minds in lung health,” said Linda Witucki, Executive Director for the Lung Association in Wisconsin. “The LUNG FORCE Expo provides vital education and resources for healthcare providers, caregivers and people who suffer from lung disease.” 

The event features nationally recognized experts, including:

Professional Track

• Valerie Bonn, MD, Medical College of Wisconsin – Lung Cancer Risk and Screenings:Patient-Centered-Decision-Making
• Nick Antos, MD, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin – New Advances in Cystic Fibrosis    

Patient Track

• Caroline Gomez-Tom, Milwaukee Enrollment Network – Medicare/Medicaid/Health Insurance Resources for Patients
• Melissa Hale, ProHealth Care – Advance Care Planning
• Pat Shumaker, Kenosha County Health Department – Home Safety

The two tracks will combine during lunch to hear keynote speaker Philip Chard, MS, a well-known psychologist from the Waukesha area who also has a weekly column in the Sunday edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.  

The full agenda is being finalized and will be made public soon.

Patients, caregivers and healthcare providers are invited to attend the event on November 16 at the Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield Hotel. Space is limited, so register now at LUNGFORCE.org/Expo. 

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About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.