Lung Association Announces Courtney Cole Endowed Lung Cancer Research Fund

Today, the American Lung Association in Indiana announced the creation of the Courtney Cole Endowed Lung Cancer Research Fund, including news that $600,000 is already raised toward the $1 million goal. The research fund was created in memory of Courtney Cole, a local mother of two who made the most out of every day of her life.

In childhood she earned several athletic accolades and reached national recognition in different sports at the college level. In adulthood she participated in dozens of triathlons and marathons. Professionally, Cole and her sister, Monica Peck, became the sixth-generation owners of Hare Chevrolet. Together, they grew company to one of the most successful car dealerships in the country. 

She would say that she was facing her toughest rival in lung cancer. Still though, through the toughest years of her life, she kept a normal routine for her two children and with the family business until she died in 2019 at age 48.

"My biggest lesson is that life is truly a gift," wrote the mother of two after she found out her cancer had returned. "I have quickly learned that every day is a gift and it is up to us to make the absolute most of it."

“Courtney made it her mission to raise awareness for lung cancer and help raise money for increased lung cancer research funding so that no one else suffers from the disease,” said Monica Peck, Cole’s sister.

“Her strength, positivity and perseverance through her battle with lung cancer inspired so many people throughout Indianapolis and across the state,” said Cayla Cole, Courtney’s daughter.

Courtney had epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutant lung cancer, which causes cancer cell to grow and divide. Almost all EGFR patients develop a resistance to treatment and their cancers progress. 

If the fund reaches it’s $1 million goal, we can fund research on preventing resistance development to the treatment of EGFR and help save lives.

“We hope my mom’s story will help us continue her efforts in making every day count and help us save lives through research. Through this fund, her great legacy will continue,” said Cayla.

A few upcoming events will focus on raising money for the fund. A Courtney Strong team will participate in the Fight For Air Climb at Lucas Oil Stadium on June 6.  All funds raised by the team will go toward the Research Fund.  If you are interested in joining or donating to the team, information can be found on the here on the website. 

Also, this year’s Evening of Promise Gala on May 22 will be held in memory of Courtney. Funds raised during the “Fund a Need” portion of the program will be directed to the Courtney Cole Endowed Lung Cancer Research Fund. On July 21st, Courtney’s friends and family will host a golf outing at Martinsville Country Club to raise money for the research fund.

For more information about the Courtney Cole Research Fund, contact Tanya Husain, Executive Director of the Lung Association, at [email protected] or 317-210-8507.