In this episode we meet Heather, diagnosed with Stage 4 ALK +ve lung cancer at the age of 34.  She has never smoked, she challenges the bias and stigma associated between lung cancer and smoking, the implicit association between the two. Is this why funding into lung cancer research is lower than other cancers, the idea it is somehow self-inflicted, preventable.  Is this why people aren't speaking up about their stories and raised awareness, they feel guilt, shame, as if the finger is being pointed at them?  Is this why lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide?

Heather speaks about living with cancer, how she will never hear the words "remission" or "no evidence of disease".  How to live alongside this, ensuring she is living her best life and inspiring others to do the same. Creating a community of "Thrivers" to support and encourage each other to flourish in the face of adversity.

References:

To read more about symptoms of lung cancer:  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-cancer/

For more information including numbers for emotional and financial support for those diagnosed/ affected by lung cancer, British Lung Foundation: https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/lung-cancer

Heather can be found on instagram @foxxnsoxx  - she also has a blog www.livingliveswithlungcancer.com and a Facebook group which is a place where the community talks about life and what makes life worth living - http://www.facebook.com/groups/livingliveswithlungcancer