Debra Smith, a local lung cancer survivor, has been tirelessly working to raise awareness and critical funds for lung cancer research with the American Lung Association. Alongside her husband Kent, Smith and their family and friends have participated in Orlando’s LUNG FORCE Run/Walk for six years, managing to raise almost $95,000 for research, education, and advocacy in Florida and beyond.
Expressing her gratitude for the advancements in lung cancer research, Smith, who serves on the LUNG FORCE Run/Walk Cabinet, shared, “I am very thankful for the lung cancer research that has benefitted me. I have been able to watch my two children, Kaylie and Kyle get married and have children of their own. Our two grandchildren, Brayden and Reina are keeping Kent and I young! I have gone 16 months with clear scans, and I am feeling strong!”
A devoted elementary school teacher from Melbourne, Smith was diagnosed with Stage IV EGFR-positive lung cancer in early 2018. Despite the challenges, she has responded well to treatment with Tagrisso, a targeted therapy pill. However, acknowledging the uncertainty of her condition, Smith emphasized the importance of continued support for research, stating, “There is no telling when my lung cancer treatment will stop working. That is why it’s so important that we continue to support research that may lead to a cure. My future literally depends on funding lung cancer research."
Amanda Henry, Director of Development for the American Lung Association in Florida, expressed immense gratitude for the Smiths' efforts, stating, “We are so incredibly grateful for Debra and Kent and their contribution to creating a future free from lung cancer and lung disease. ‘Team Deb’ has raised a staggering amount—nearly $95,000—to fund lung cancer research and other programming to support the more than 2.7 Floridians with lung disease.”
Individuals interested in supporting the cause are encouraged to join Debra and Kent Smith and numerous other lung health advocates at the 10th annual LUNG FORCE Run/Walk on Saturday, May 4 at Baldwin Park. The event, presented by AdventHealth, aims to raise awareness and critical funds for lung cancer research. For further details, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Orlando.
For those seeking more information or wishing to request an interview with Debra Smith, please contact Victoria O’Neill via email at [email protected] or call 312-273-5890.
