Doran's Dynamos

Three years ago, my dad was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and died two months later. He, like 60% of all lung cancer victims, was NOT a smoker. Upon hearing that he had lung cancer, a lot of people assumed he smoked and would give me an unsympathetic, 'he should've know better' look. On the contrary, he lived a very healthy lifestyle, eating well and exercising regularily. I was hurt by those reactions but can't blame people for jumping to that conclusion. There's simply not a lot of information out there regarding lung cancer. In honor of my dad, I've made it my mission to educate others that lung cancer can happen to anyone and the fight against it needs our support.

Did you know that in one year, lung cancer claims more lives than breast, prostrate, colon, liver and kidney cancer combined? And yet only $1,630 is spent per lung cancer death compared to the $13,452 spent per breast cancer death. Thanks to such financial aid, breast cancer survival rates keep increasing (Thank God!). Wouldn't it be great if all other cancers had similar support?

My dad took on his cancer with his fists flying. He volunteered for every clinical trial offered and gladly accepted all his chemo treatments. Despite his grim prognosis, but committed to the fight, he received his last round of chemo just two days before he passed away. I want to continue his determination and find a way to kick lung cancer's ass!!

You are invited to join my team, 'Doran's Dynamos' on September 10th, at the 2011 Twin Cities Lung Run to show your support of this worthy cause. If you can't make the run, please consider making a donation.