Nashville Woman Given 6 Months to Live; 6 Years Later Walks to Inspire Others

Nashville resident Katie Bullington’s doctors gave her only six months to live when she was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in 2014. Now, six years later she is sharing her story to raise awareness for lung cancer, and raise money to end all lung diseases, including COVID-19.

In 2014, Bullington was driving on a winter night. As she approached a hill, a car pulled out in front of her and hit her head on. She was rushed to the hospital with broken ribs, broken knees and broken ankles. In the emergency room, her heart stopped. Resulting chest scans led to a surprising diagnosis – stage IV lung cancer.

Bullington had a tumor in her lungs, and two tumors in her brain. After she recovered from her injuries from the car accident, she began chemotherapy and radiation for her cancer. The doctor gave her just six months to live. Six years later, Bullington still has lung cancer, but her condition is stable, and she is no longer undergoing any treatment. She receives scans on a regular basis to monitor the tumors.

“The doctor told me that my story gives other people hope,” Bullington said.

Bullington got involved with the American Lung Association to raise awareness for lung cancer and support research to find a cure. This year, she is the chairwoman of the American Lung Association in Tennessee’s LUNG FORCE Run/Walk, a virtual fundraising event where participants can run or walk one mile, a 5K, 10K, or a half marathon in one trip or can spread out their chosen distance over the entire month.

“Supporting the Lung Association is so important to me because I am the perfect example of what science can do,” she said. “It isn’t just about lung cancer; it is about all the lung diseases. It is very dear to my heart to be with such a wonderful organization. It feels so great to be involved.”

Money raised at the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk will fund the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease. It will also 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 initiative works with public and private entities to increase research collaboration and develop new vaccines, detection tests and treatment therapies.

Registration for the virtual event is $25. More information can be found at LUNGFORCE.org/Nashville. Registered participants will receive a digital, customizable Race Bib to wear during their virtual race to show their support. All participants who register and send proof of completion will receive an official 2020 LUNG FORCE Run/Walk medal post-race.