Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything

Lung Cancer Foundation of America
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Living with lung cancer isn't just about treatment plans and statistics—it's about the raw, real, messy truth of what it means to survive. No topic is off-limits. No question is too uncomfortable. No experience is too raw to share.

Episodes

  1. May 28

    SubQ: A Simpler, Less Disruptive Path to Lung Cancer Treatment

    What if "one more medication" didn't have to feel like another punch? Host James Hiter sits down with ALK+ lung cancer survivor and patient advocate Stephanie Williams to demystify subcutaneous (SubQ) treatment delivery. Diagnosed at 37 with stage 2 non-small cell lung cancer, Stephanie brings both her patient experience and her background as a registered nurse to this conversation. She explains what SubQ delivery is, how it compares to traditional IV infusion, what to expect during an injection, and why this option can mean less anxiety, fewer infection risks, and more time back with family. You'll also hear Stephanie's clear, compassionate advice for the newly diagnosed: get biomarker testing, seek a second opinion, and connect with others who've walked this road. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply curious about how lung cancer treatment is evolving, this episode offers practical insight and a hopeful look at where care is headed. Guests: Stephanie Williams, Patient Advocate, LCFA's Speakers Bureau Host: James Hiter, Patient Advocate, LCFA Board Member   READY TO TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT SubQ? Download LCFA's free SubQ Conversation Toolkit — it includes a Treatment Delivery FAQ, a SubQ vs. IV infographic, and a Conversation Guide built specifically for your next appointment. Bring it with you and start the conversation with confidence. Get your free toolkit at: https://lcfamerica.org/about-lung-cancer/treatment/subcutaneous-delivery/  Transcript Link: https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LCFA-AMA-SubQ-Simpler-Way-Transcript.pdf  Show Notes Link: https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LCFA-AMA-SubQ-Simpler-Way-Show-Notes.pdf   Video: https://youtu.be/8UgbxAmuY0U

    18 min

  2. May 14

    14 Years Strong: Lysa Buonanno on Clinical Trials, ROS1, and Living Long-Term with Lung Cancer

    What does 14 years of living with stage 4 lung cancer actually look like? Host Annabelle Gurwitch welcomes patient advocate, mentor, and new grandmother Lysa Buonanno for a deeply honest conversation about long-term survival with ROS1-positive lung cancer. Diagnosed at age 40 before biomarker testing was standard of care, Lysa learned about precision medicine through an online patient group, not her doctor. That knowledge led her to switch oncologists, undergo surgery for biomarker testing, and ultimately access targeted therapy that gave her five more years before progression. Today, she's on her fifth line of treatment via a Phase 1 clinical trial. Annabelle and Lysa dive into: The hidden realities of clinical trial participation (travel, reimbursement, the famous "$20 airport lunch") Why lung cancer trials don't use placebos The life-changing power of patient community and biomarker-specific support groups Why second opinions matter—and what to say to your doctor How identity shifts after a serious diagnosis Why we say "the drug failed the patient," not the patient failed the drug Becoming a grandmother after a terminal diagnosis Whether you're newly diagnosed, considering a clinical trial, or supporting a loved one with lung cancer, this episode delivers practical wisdom, scientific insight, and genuine hope. Guests:  Lysa Buonanno, patient advocate and 14-year ROS1 lung cancer survivor Annabelle Gurwitch – Host, Author, and Patient Advocate New York Times bestselling author and LCFA Speakers Bureau member living with stage 4 EGFR+ lung cancer. Annabelle brings compassion, wit, and unflinching honesty to conversations about the real challenges of living with lung cancer. Diagnosed five years ago, she uses her platform to advocate for patients and raise awareness about treatment advances. Connect: https://www.annabellegurwitch.com/ | @annabellegurwitch LCFA Profile: https://lcfamerica.org/speaker-profile/annabelle-gurwitch/ Show Notes: https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LCFA-AMA-Living-Long-Term-w-Lung-Cancer-Show-Notes.pdf  Transcript: https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LCFA-AMA-Living-Long-Term-w-Lung-Cancer-Transcript.pdf  Video: Resources:  LCFA Website: https://lcfamerica.org Living With Lung Cancer AMA Podcast: https://lcfamerica.org/living-with-lung-cancer/ask-me-anything/ LCFA Speakers Bureau: https://lcfamerica.org/speakers-bureau/ LCFA Second Opinion Resources: https://lcfamerica.org/resources/second-opinion/ Biomarker Testing Information: https://lcfamerica.org/lung-cancer-info/diagnosing-lung-cancer/biomarker-testing/ Treatment Options Overview: https://lcfamerica.org/lung-cancer-info/treatment/ Elevate Lung Cancer Care - Learn about your advanced ROS1+ or ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnosis and ways to navigate care plan discussions - https://elevatelungcancercare.com/

    52 min

  3. Apr 30

    Scanxiety: Managing Drug Resistance Fears with ALK+ Patient Jaymie Knox

    What goes through your mind in the days before a lung cancer scan? In this honest conversation, host James Hiter talks with ALK+ patient advocate Jaymie Knox about scanxiety, drug resistance, and the mental gymnastics of living with targeted therapy. Now seven years into treatment with alectinib, Jaymie shares why having a Plan B matters, how she keeps cancer from taking over her headspace, and why the language we use, "the medication failed me," not the other way around, makes a real difference for patients. Together, James and Jaymie talk about: Why drug resistance doesn't have to be the end of the road How scanxiety changes over years of treatment Practical ways to cope before, during, and after scans The power of a strong care team and a clear Plan B Hope grounded in real science and real options Whether you're newly diagnosed or a long-term survivor, this episode offers honest encouragement for the road ahead. Guests: Jaymie Knox Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau Member | ALK+ Survivor & Advocate Jaymie was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK-positive lung cancer in December 2018 at age 32 — newly married and ready to start the next chapter of her life. Her first doctor failed to stage her cancer or explain what lay ahead. She fought for better care and never looked back. Now living in Washington, D.C., Jaymie recently fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a foster mom to two young children. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in the lung cancer community and lives by a simple philosophy: "Have your moment, then turn the page." James Hiter Endurance Athlete | Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau Member | Survivor James brings curiosity, determination, and hard-won wisdom to conversations about living with lung cancer. Diagnosed in 2017 with a rare multicystic presentation, he’s undergone three lung surgeries and now operates on roughly 55% of his original lung capacity—yet he still runs every single day. His journey through multidisciplinary tumor boards, second opinions, and ongoing surveillance gives him an intimate understanding of what patients and caregivers face. James asks the questions patients actually want answered because he’s wondered them himself. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/LCFA-AMA-Scanxiety-Managing-Drug-Resistance-Fears-Notes.pdf  Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/LCFA-AMA-Drug-Resistance-Scanxiety-Transcript.pdf  Watch the video - https://youtu.be/O6F_OLwjRHM

    25 min

  4. Apr 16

    This Is Just One Chapter: Mental Health, Purpose, and Hope With Lung Cancer

    Mental health is one of the most important — and most overlooked — parts of living with lung cancer. Host James Hiter and fellow survivor Jaymie Knox have an honest conversation about the emotional toll of a stage 4 diagnosis, how to cope with scanxiety, the power of community, and why it's okay not to be okay. Jaymie shares how reframing her thinking, building a strong support network, becoming a foster mom, and leaning into purpose have helped her navigate the mental challenges of treatment. If you or someone you love is living with lung cancer, this episode is a must-listen. Guests: Jaymie Knox Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau Member | ALK+ Survivor & Advocate Jaymie was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK-positive lung cancer in December 2018 at age 32 — newly married and ready to start the next chapter of her life. Her first doctor failed to stage her cancer or explain what lay ahead. She fought for better care and never looked back. Now living in Washington, D.C., Jaymie recently fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a foster mom to two young children. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness in the lung cancer community and lives by a simple philosophy: "Have your moment, then turn the page." James Hiter Endurance Athlete | Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau Member | Survivor James brings curiosity, determination, and hard-won wisdom to conversations about living with lung cancer. Diagnosed in 2017 with a rare multicystic presentation, he’s undergone three lung surgeries and now operates on roughly 55% of his original lung capacity—yet he still runs every single day. His journey through multidisciplinary tumor boards, second opinions, and ongoing surveillance gives him an intimate understanding of what patients and caregivers face. James asks the questions patients actually want answered because he’s wondered them himself. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/LCFA-AMA-Managing-Mental-Health-Show-Notes.pdf  Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/LCFA-AMA-Mental-Health-Transcript.pdf Watch Video - https://youtu.be/lsen2RMilEQ  Links and Resources LCFA Patient Education and Support LCFA's Patient Education Materials — Learn about types, stages, and treatment options The First 7 Days — LCFA's roadmap for newly diagnosed patients Biomarker Testing and Treatment Information • Biomarker Testing Resources — Why testing matters and how to get it • ALK Positive — Learn more about ALK-positive lung cancer and current treatment options Patient Communities and Support Elevate Lung Cancer Care – Learn about advanced ROS1+ or ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnosis and ways to navigate care plan discussions Online Biomarker-Specific Communities - additional patient-driven organizations listing Ask your care team about mental health support - Counseling, social work services, palliative care, and support groups at your treatment center Screening and Early Detection • Low-dose CT screening can reduce lung cancer mortality by 14%–25% among eligible individuals Clinical Trials • LCFA Clinical Trial Resources — Tools to find and understand clinical trial options Subscribe to Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything podcast for future episodes on your favorite listening platform. Join LCFA's social media communities for support and information. Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

    40 min

  5. Apr 9

    Time Toxicity in Lung Cancer: What Patients Wish They Knew

    Lung cancer treatment takes more than physical strength — it takes time. Host James Hiter sits down with lung cancer survivor Maida Mangiameli to talk about “time toxicity” — the often overlooked burden of treatment on daily life. They discuss: What time toxicity really means for patients The hours spent in treatment, recovery, and waiting How lung cancer impacts work, routines, and independence The time commitment required for clinical trials The role caregivers play in managing that time How patients adjust to a new pace of life If you or someone you love is navigating lung cancer, this episode offers a real and honest look at what treatment truly involves. Guests: James Hiter Endurance Athlete | LCFA Speakers Bureau Member | Survivor Diagnosed in 2017 with a rare lung cancer, James has navigated three surgeries and now operates at 55% lung capacity—yet he still runs daily. His journey through complex treatments and surveillance gives him a deep, personal understanding of the patient experience. James asks the tough questions because he’s lived them himself. Maida Mangiameli Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau Member | SCLC Survivor & Advocate A 74-year-old survivor of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC), Maida has been in remission for six years. From canceling a dream cruise for immediate treatment to managing spinal tumors with humor and grit, she refuses to be a statistic. Maida is a dedicated advocate for research and a powerful voice on balancing intensive medical care with a vibrant, active life. Show Notes – https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/LCFA-AMA-Time-Toxicity-Show-Notes.pdf  Transcript – https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AMA-Time-Toxicity-Transcript.pdf  Video – https://youtu.be/jgnw0B4mUZY   Resources NEW! LCFA Caregiver Resources Everything caregivers need in one place — guidance, community, and tools for every stage of the lung cancer journey. lcfamerica.org/living-with-lung-cancer/caregiving-resources/ Understanding Clinical Trials: FREE Conversation Toolkit For people diagnosed with lung cancer, clinical trials may offer access to promising treatments in addition to standard care. https://lcfamerica.org/about-lung-cancer/clinical-trials/ Side Effects & Lung Cancer: The Hidden Realities Patients Live With https://lcfamerica.org/story/side-effects-lung-cancer-the-hidden-realities-patients-live-with/

    25 min

  6. Mar 19

    The Reality of Caregiving: Anna Konkle on Love, Conflict, and Loss

    No one hands you a manual when someone you love is diagnosed with lung cancer. One day you're a daughter, a partner, a friend — and the next, you're a scheduler, an advocate, a medical translator, and an emotional anchor. And through all of it, you are still a person with your own fears, your own exhaustion, and your own life. In this episode of Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything, host Annabelle Gurwitch sits down with actor and writer Anna Konkle for one of the most honest conversations about caregiving we've had on this podcast. Anna cared for her father through his lung cancer diagnosis and death — and she doesn't hold back about what that experience was really like. They talk about: The loneliness caregivers rarely admit to Conflict, resentment, and the feelings no one gives you permission to have Respecting a loved one's autonomy while still advocating for their care Building a support system when you feel like you're doing it alone Why humor and heartbreak so often arrive together The unexpected healing that can happen in the hardest moments If you're caregiving for someone with lung cancer — or you love someone who is — this episode is for you. For caregiver resources and community support, visit lcfamerica.org. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LCFA-AMA-Reality-of-Caregiving-Show-Notes.pdf  Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LCFA-AMA-Reality-of-Caregiving-Transcript.pdf  Video -  https://youtu.be/1YBymTFk6lo  Subscribe to the Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything podcast for future episodes on your favorite listening platform. Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeart Join LCFA's social media communities for support and information. Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram | YouTube

    48 min

  7. 12/18/2025

    SABR for Lung Cancer: What Every Patient Should Know About Stereotactic Radiation

    What if treating early-stage lung cancer could be as simple as lying still for 10 minutes—no surgery, no anesthesia, no hospital stay? In this episode, host James Hiter talks with Dr. Drew Moghanaki, Chief of Thoracic Oncology at UCLA, about SABR (stereotactic ablative radiation)—a game-changing treatment that delivers highly precise radiation in just 1-5 sessions. Learn why every patient should ask for a radiation oncologist consult, how SABR compares to surgery, and why preserving lung tissue matters for long-term quality of life. Key topics covered: What SABR/SBRT is and how it works Why treatment takes 5 sessions or less (sometimes just one!) The importance of biomarker testing before any local therapy How multidisciplinary teams improve treatment decisions What the treatment experience is actually like The future of lung cancer local therapies Whether you're newly diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer or exploring treatment options, this conversation delivers practical information and hope through scientific progress. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMA-SABR-for-Lung-Cancer-Show-Notes.pdf   Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMA-SABR-for-Lung-Cancer-Transcript.pdf   Video -  https://youtu.be/a6q2ZaJp9BQ

    33 min

  8. 12/11/2025

    Communicating With Your Doctor: Knowing When It’s Time to Switch

    Changing doctors can feel overwhelming, but it’s often an important part of getting the right care—especially in lung cancer. In this episode of Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything, host Annabelle Gurwitch talks with advocate Colette Smith about how to communicate your needs, recognize when a doctor isn’t the right fit, and build a care team that supports your goals. Learn practical strategies for speaking up, seeking second opinions, preparing for appointments, and staying informed about the science behind your mutation. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMA-Communicating-With-Your-Doctor-Show-Notes.pdf Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMA-Communicating-With-Your-Doctor-Transcript.pdf Watch Video - https://youtu.be/pv6cQGo4gog

    19 min

  9. 12/04/2025

    How to Talk to Your Doctor: Shared Decision-Making in Lung Cancer Care

    Communication with your oncologist can make all the difference in your lung cancer journey. In this episode, host Annabelle Gurwitch talks with thoracic oncologist Dr. Alice Shaw about how to have more effective conversations with your care team. Learn practical strategies for discussing treatment goals, managing side effects, understanding biomarker testing, and knowing when to seek a second opinion. Whether you're newly diagnosed or years into treatment, this episode offers valuable insights for becoming a more empowered patient.   Guest: Dr. Alice Shaw, Director of the Center for Thoracic Cancers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School Host: Annabelle Gurwitch, New York Times bestselling author, LCFA Speakers Bureau member, and lung cancer survivor Visit her website: annabellegurwitch.com | Follow her on Facebook Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMASharedDecisionMakinginLungCancerCare-Show-Notes.pdf Transcript- https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AMAShared-Decision-Making-in-Lung-Cancer-Transcript.pdf  Watch Video - https://youtu.be/BV98OiryMe0

    40 min

  10. 11/30/2025

    Understanding ROS1-positive Lung Cancer with Dr. Alice Shaw

    In this episode of Living With Lung Cancer: Ask Me Anything, host Annabelle Gurwitch sits down with Dr. Alice Shaw from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for an in-depth conversation about ROS1-positive lung cancer. Learn about this rare biomarker affecting only 1-2% of lung cancer patients, breakthrough targeted therapies, and how next-generation treatments are transforming outcomes. Dr. Shaw, an internationally recognized expert in targeted therapies, discusses the importance of biomarker testing, clinical trial participation, and why specialized care matters for rare biomarkers. She explains how next-generation ROS1 inhibitors are more potent, selective, and designed to penetrate the brain—addressing one of lung cancer's most challenging complications. Whether you're newly diagnosed with ROS1-positive lung cancer, a caregiver, or seeking to understand treatment advances, this episode provides essential information and real hope through scientific advancement. Topics covered: • What "oncogene-driven" lung cancer means and why it's good news • The critical importance of comprehensive biomarker testing • Tissue vs. liquid biopsy: which test and when • How ROS1 targeted therapies have evolved over 15 years • Next-generation treatments with better efficacy and fewer side effects • Brain penetration and preventing metastases • How to participate in clinical trials while keeping your local care team • Advocating for specialized care and second opinions • Resources for ROS1 patients and caregivers Guest: Dr. Alice Shaw, Director of the Center for Thoracic Cancers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School Host: Annabelle Gurwitch, New York Times bestselling author, LCFA Speakers Bureau member, and lung cancer survivor Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-ROS1-Positive-Lung-Cancer-Show-Notes.pdf Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-ROS1-Treatments-w-Dr-Alice-Shaw-Transcript.pdf Watch Video - https://youtu.be/uy0B67AyyVs

    34 min

  11. 11/20/2025

    Side Effects & Lung Cancer: What Patients Wish Doctors Knew

    Side effects can be painful, frustrating, and deeply misunderstood—especially when they’re invisible. In this episode, host Annabelle Gurwitch and advocate Colette Smith share candid stories about surgery recovery, TKI toxicity, anxiety, and the everyday challenges patients rarely talk about. Learn how to navigate tough conversations with doctors, what to do when side effects interrupt your life, and why community support is essential. Whether you're newly diagnosed, in long-term survivorship, or supporting someone you love, this episode offers practical insight, validation, and hope. Guests: Annabelle Gurwitch – Host, Author, and Patient Advocate Annabelle brings compassion and candor to conversations about lung cancer, creating space for honest discussions about challenges patients face—from medical debt to emotional strain. Visit her website: annabellegurwitch.com | Follow her on Facebook Colette Smith – Colette Smith is a dynamic lung cancer survivor, patient advocate, and community health champion who transformed her 2015 Stage 1A adenocarcinoma diagnosis into a powerful platform for change. As a never-smoker diagnosed through persistent self-advocacy, Colette's mission is to emphasize the importance of patient empowerment and early detection. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-Side-Effects-Show-Notes.pdf Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-Side-Effects-Transcript.pdf Watch Video- https://youtu.be/n1_IQF3ho7Y

    31 min

  12. 11/13/2025

    Financial Toxicity in Lung Cancer Care: How Patients Navigate the Hidden Costs

    How am I supposed to afford this? It's the question many lung cancer patients are afraid to ask out loud. In our premiere episode, host Annabelle Gurwitch tackles the financial toxicity of cancer care—the hidden costs beyond medical bills, insurance battles, medical debt, and where to find help when you can't afford treatment. Financial toxicity is one of the most difficult and overlooked challenges in cancer care. Annabelle and advocate Colette Smith share powerful stories about navigating insurance roadblocks, medical debt, and employment discrimination. Learn practical strategies to manage out-of-pocket costs, appeal denials, and access trusted resources. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation sheds light on the true cost of living with lung cancer and how knowledge can turn financial fear into empowerment. Annabelle Gurwitch – Host, Author, and Patient Advocate Annabelle brings compassion and candor to conversations about lung cancer, creating space for honest discussions about challenges patients face—from medical debt to emotional strain. Visit her website: annabellegurwitch.com | Follow her on Facebook Colette Smith is a dynamic lung cancer survivor, patient advocate, and community health champion who transformed her 2015 Stage 1A adenocarcinoma diagnosis into a powerful platform for change. As a never-smoker diagnosed through persistent self-advocacy, Colette's mission is to emphasize the importance of patient empowerment and early detection. Show Notes - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-Financial-Toxicity-Show-Notes.pdf Transcript - https://lcfamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AMA-Financial-Toxicity-Transcript.pdf Watch Video - https://youtu.be/SfLl_jnvH8U

    35 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Living with lung cancer isn't just about treatment plans and statistics—it's about the raw, real, messy truth of what it means to survive. No topic is off-limits. No question is too uncomfortable. No experience is too raw to share.

Information

You Might Also Like