Local Lung Cancer Survivor Travels to Washington, D.C. to Urge Lawmakers to Support Lifesaving Research and Public Health Funding

Elkmont resident and lung cancer survivor, Khris Anderson, will travel to Washington, D.C. to meet with her members of Congress during the American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE Advocacy Day on March 20. As a part of the nationwide event, Anderson will join more than 40 other people across the country who have been impacted by lung cancer to ask lawmakers to support $51.3 billion in research funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and $11.6 billion in funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Anderson, a nonprofit executive, was diagnosed with lung cancer in one of the most unexpected of ways. In the fall of 2015, she discovered a rash from a tick bite and went on a round of antibiotics. Soon after, she developed a dry, hacking cough that brought her back to the doctor. Two X-rays and a bronchoscopy revealed a fast-growing tumor in her lungs. The cancer had spread to her lymph nodes. Anderson’s treatment plan included chemotherapy, immunotherapy and, eventually, a lobectomy. She credits her team of doctors and the dedication of her family for her recovery.

“After my Stage IV diagnosis and failed chemotherapy treatment, I had thought I wouldn’t be able to see my children get married and meet my grandchildren,” said Anderson. “Thankfully, my immunotherapy was approved for lung cancer just a few short months before it was offered to me. I was able to attend both my son’s and daughter's weddings, and I have another grandchild on the way.”

She added: “Thanks to advancements in cancer treatment and the work of organizations like the American Lung Association, it’s a more promising time than ever for lung cancer patients. Today, there are so many more treatment options—so much more hope. I’m an advocate because I understand how important it is.”

During Advocacy Day, Anderson will speak with her U.S. senators and representative to share her personal experience with lung cancer and explain why investments in public health and research funding are important to her.

Thousands of LUNG FORCE Heroes from across the country have raised their voices since 2014 to urge their members of Congress in Washington, D.C., to support robust, sustainable and predictable federal funding increases for lung cancer research, prevention, as well as quality and affordable healthcare. LUNG FORCE Heroes have succeeded in helping increase NIH lung cancer research funding by over 130% since the inception of LUNG FORCE in 2014. NIH has also funded research that has led to new treatments that are saving lives today. Since 2016, over 50 new therapies have been approved by the FDA to treat lung cancer – giving life and hope to those impacted by this disease.

Anderson encourages others in Alabama to advocate for lung cancer research and healthcare protections by contacting their members of Congress, which they can do at Lung.org/AdvocacyDay. Learn more about Khris Anderson’s story and the LUNG FORCE initiative at LUNGFORCE.org.