Local Mother with Stage IV Lung Cancer on Mission to End Lung Disease

Leah Phillips was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019 and immediately knew she wanted to become more involved in advocating for lung cancer awareness. That is one reason why she’s participating in the American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE Run/Walk in Louisville on June 4. 

“I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer as a never smoker at age 43,” Phillips said. “I am very passionate about the Lung Association’s mission to end lung disease. I have a husband and three children that need me.”

Philips created the fundraising team “Leah’s Lungs” and will be featured at the event as a LUNG FORCE Hero to share her story and educate others on what it’s like to live with lung cancer.

“The Lung Association seemed like a perfect fit for me,” she said. “I think this event will be a great way to jump back into a normal year of fundraising.” 

This year’s LUNG FORCE event consists of walking a mile long treasure hunt in Paristown from 5 – 8 p.m. Walkers will begin in separate waves to ensure social distancing. All runners will participate virtually in a location and distance of their choosing. 

“Having an in-person event will bring a feeling of excitement,” Phillips said. “I’m looking forward to seeing walkers coming out to support those of us with lung diseases that the Lung Association works so hard to support.”

Money raised at the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease, as well as support the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative, a $25 million investment to address COVID-19 and protect against future respiratory virus pandemics. 

The Lung Association invites individuals, families, groups of friends, and corporate teams to the 2021 Louisville LUNG FORCE Run/Walk. The organization is also offering a “Walk Your Way” option for those who can’t attend the in-person event.

Masks will be required at the event and social distancing will be practiced. The safety of participants, staff and volunteers is always our number one priority, so we are continually monitoring local conditions that might affect the event. Everyone is encouraged to check our event website for the most up-to-date information leading up to the event.

Adult registration for the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk is $38, child registration is $10. All participants are encouraged to raise funds. Registrants who make a self-donation of $33 will earn an official Lung Association Sports Scarf.  For more information, and to register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Louisville.