Meet Deb, a dedicated lung cancer advocate who finds joy in traveling, immersing herself in new cultures, and gardening. 

In 1998, at the age of 44, Deb was diagnosed with stage III lung cancer. Following her treatment, she became a passionate advocate, lobbying for greater awareness and increased funding for lung cancer research. Her dedication led her to establish The Free ME from Lung Cancer Foundation in 2012. Through the foundation, she raises funds for research and early lung cancer screenings while also assisting low-income, single-family homeowners in accessing radon air-abatement systems. 

Deb retired from the State of Maine after 43 years of service with the Department of Education and the Department of Labor and Professional Finance Regulations. 

As a lung cancer survivor, Deb says she didn’t have time to contemplate the right path for her survivorship. Driven by a strong desire to create positive change for patients, she feels a deep sense of empathy and compassion for those impacted by lung cancer and is committed to improving their quality of life and overall survivorship. 

Throughout her lung cancer journey, Deb has played a vital role in advocacy and research. She participated in the Department of Defense (DOD) Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs peer-review panel, becoming one of the first advocates to contribute to what is now a well-established entity. She has also served as a patient advocate for the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Lung SPORE program on behalf of The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and has contributed to clinical trial boards in the same capacity. Additionally, she serves on the Maine Lung Cancer Coalition Advisory Board and has participated in the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) Supportive Training for Advocates on Research and Science (STARS) Program as a Patient Research Advocate (PRA). 

Deb hopes her advocacy efforts will enhance patient education by providing accurate, reliable, and accessible information. She champions policies and programs that improve access to quality healthcare, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location. Deb believes advocacy is a powerful tool for driving advancements in research and treatment options for lung cancer patients. 

Deb states, “We have come a long way since my diagnosis. The treatment I received is different from what most lung cancer patients have access to today. We are living longer, and our voices are getting stronger. Yet, we still face the stigma long associated with this disease. Unlike other cancer patients, those with lung cancer are often asked if they smoked, reinforcing unnecessary shame and blame. We must end this stigma and recognize lung cancer for what it is—a disease that takes more lives than breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers combined.” 

For years, Deb has worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with members of Congress. She attended the 2024 and 2025 OVAC Grassroots Lobby Days with LUNGevity and shared her experience: “I had the opportunity to effectively communicate my concerns and priorities to lawmakers, ensuring my voice was heard. I believe my Congressional Leaders were supportive of the cause I represented. Networking with like-minded advocates and supporting each other’s accomplishments was empowering. Influencing legislation and policy changes that benefit lung cancer patients at both the state and national levels is incredibly rewarding.” 

Deb finds hope in advancements in research, including new treatments, therapies, and clinical trials that offer improved outcomes and better quality of life for patients. The courage and determination of those affected by lung cancer inspires and motivates her to continue advocating. She says, “Hearing from survivors and learning about their experiences reinforces the importance of the work I am doing.” 

For those looking to get involved in advocacy, Deb advises, “Start small. Begin by sharing your personal story with others. Join online support groups or forums to connect with fellow patients or participate in local events and fundraisers. Build relationships. Empower others by encouraging fellow patients to share their stories and become advocates. But most of all, take care of yourself. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being, set boundaries, and avoid burnout. Celebrate accomplishments—big or small—and acknowledge your limitations.” 

Reflecting on her advocacy journey, Deb states, “The advocacy efforts I engage in today will lead to changes in legislation and policy, improving access to care, increasing funding for research, and providing greater support for patients and their families.”