Detroit Woman Named National Lung Cancer Hero

On October 15, Detroit resident and lung cancer survivor Debbie Pickworth will be one of four people nationwide to receive the CURE Media Group’s 2020 Lung Cancer Heroes™ award during an online ceremony.

Pickworth is living with stage IV lung cancer, and both her mother and grandmother passed away from the disease. In addition to recently joining the Local Leadership Board, she is a dedicated American Lung Association volunteer, hosts a lung cancer support group, is a Imerman Angels mentor for people with lung cancer, and serves as one of the Lung Association’s representatives as a consumer reviewer with the US Department of Defense’s Lung Cancer Research Program (LCRP).

“Debbie is the third generation in her family diagnosed with lung cancer and has been highly motivated to support newly diagnosed survivors and raise awareness and funds for better screening and treatment options,” said Maureen Rovas, executive director for the Lung Association. “Debbie has made an incredible impact over the past seven years as a passionate advocate for those affected by lung cancer. She makes it her mission for others get the support that was not available to her when she heard the words ‘you have lung cancer.’”

Pickworth continues to be very engaged in the event that brought her to the Lung Association, the annual LUNG FORCE Walk Detroit. She has served as the Event Chair, is a current member of the Engagement Committee and her team, Team Pickworth, has raised $17,300 over the past six years (see her current fundraising efforts here).

The 2020 Lung Cancer Heroes™ awards recognizes four individuals nationwide who have gone above and beyond, making a difference in the lives those affected by lung cancer. The virtual celebration will take place Thursday, October 15 from 6-7:30 p.m. EDT. More information is available here.