Lung Cancer Survivor Takes Action to End Lung Disease

Thanks to early detection of lung cancer, Tracy Goldhardt, from Perry, can say she’s alive today and cancer free. Just three months after being diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer and 30 days after a double lobectomy, Goldhardt is walking a 5k as part of the American Lung Association in Ohio’s LUNG FORCE Run/Walk, October 15 at Wade Oval. 

“I always practiced healthy habits. I never smoked, didn’t burn candles and never cleaned with chemicals. So I was shocked in July when I went for a routine cardiac score MRI and was told there was a mass in my lung that required biopsy,” said Goldhardt.

She then learned the mass was cancer but was fortunate to have found it early. It was stage 2 carcinoma. 

“After exploring options, my medical team, family and I opted for the lobectomy procedure. I ended up needing a double lobectomy and had both lower and middle lobes of my right lung removed. My doctor made the best decision for me during surgery,” she said.
  
Almost immediately after surgery she started focusing on her full recovery. She formed a team to join her at the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk from her hospital bed and (at this writing) they are the top fundraising team, and she is the top fundraiser of the event. All of this work within 30 days of her surgery.

“I’m grateful for all of the support through donation and prayers as I make this walk part of my recovery journey. Being a part of the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk is about supporting those in need and saving lives by funding innovative research and early detection initiatives. It saved my life,” said Goldhardt.

Goldhardt learned this week at her follow up appointment that she is now cancer free. “My journey to share my story and educate to save lives is just beginning,” she said. 

The LUNG FORCE Run/Walk presented by the Cleveland Clinic will take place at Wade Oval. 

For more information, and to register for the event, visit LUNGFORCEWalk.org/cleveland.