Meet Donnita, an adventurous grandmother, Navy Veteran, and dedicated lung cancer advocate who finds joy in sharing her love of the outdoors with family and friends.  

After retiring as an IT Specialist from federal service in 2017, her life entered a new and joyful chapter when she welcomed her first grandchild the following year, quickly followed by her second just six months later. Her relationships with her children, grandchildren, and close friends are the foundation of her strength and purpose. 

After a long and rewarding career, she now spends her days embracing life’s adventures. Whether she’s embarking on a road trip, paddleboarding on the Occoquan Reservoir, or sharing laughter and campfires with her grandchildren during camping excursions in her van, Donnita treasures the joy and memories these experiences bring. 

An active member and ambassador for a large women’s hiking group in Virginia, she frequently leads hikes and connects with like-minded adventurers. The Blue Ridge Mountains, particularly Shenandoah National Park, are among her favorite places to find inspiration and peace. 

A diagnosis of lung cancer in 2023 changed her life in many ways. Though her smoking history was noted in her medical record, she had to take the initiative to request a screening. This proactive step led to early detection and a stage 1a non-small cell lung cancer diagnosis, which has given her precious time with loved ones. Grateful for this opportunity, she shares her story to inspire others to prioritize their health and advocate for the care they need. 

Her work as a lung cancer advocate centers on raising awareness about screening and breaking the stigma surrounding the disease. Many are unaware of the eligibility criteria for screening or the importance of early detection, something she works to change. She also emphasizes that lung cancer doesn’t discriminate; anyone with lungs can get it, as evidenced by many young people with no tobacco history. 

Challenging perceptions and misconceptions is an important part of her advocacy. Donnita speaks out against the stigma that creates barriers to research funding, care, and support. She also acknowledges the cultural and tobacco industry influences that have led many people to addiction, advocating for compassion toward those affected. Through her efforts, she hopes to foster greater understanding and dismantle these barriers. 

In conversations, she often highlights the importance of testing for radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer, and encourages people to test their homes. She believes that small actions like these can make a big difference in protecting one’s health. 

Donnita finds the most meaningful moments in her life come from spending time with her family. Whether she is exploring trails, paddleboarding, or enjoying quiet moments by the fire, these experiences fuel her hope and strength. She also draws hope from the progress being made in lung cancer awareness and treatment, knowing that even the smallest advances bring us closer to a better future for everyone. 

For Donnita, mindful breathing has become a key practice in her daily life. She shares: 

“Just breathe. It may sound simple, but mindful breathing is a practice that helps me stay grounded. I take several slow, deep breaths, breathing in through my nose, filling my lungs completely, and then slowly exhaling through my mouth, releasing the tension. With each breath, I let go of stress and invite calm. My work in advocacy puts me in a vulnerable place, opening me to the perceptions others have about lung cancer, but breathwork helps me process those emotions. In those quiet moments, I create space to reflect, find peace, and stay focused. With each breath, I approach my journey with compassion for myself and others and find the strength to keep moving forward.”