Detroit Lung Cancer Survivor Fights to Find a Cure

Debbie Pickworth is no stranger to the devastating impact of lung cancer. After losing both her mother and grandmother to the disease, Pickworth was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer on March 4, 2013. Now, she is helping lead the LUNG FORCE Walk, as the Chair of the event, at the Detroit Zoo on September 29 to help find a cure for lung cancer.

Pickworth was treated with three different types of chemotherapy two different times and also participated in a clinical trial. She has been stable in her condition since 2014. She joined the LUNG FORCE Walk to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for lung cancer.

“To see other people in the same position as me at previous LUNG FORCE Walks was like a release and it motivated me more. Now I know there is something I can do to help in this fight,” she said. “I also have a daughter. She motivates me because we need early detection so she doesn’t have to worry about having stage IV lung cancer.”

The LUNG FORCE Walk is a unique fundraising event for the Lung Association, with shorter routes available for those suffering from lung cancer or disease. At the event, hundreds of local residents rally friends, neighbors, and colleagues to raise their voices against lung cancer and lung disease. Funds raised support research, advocacy and educational programs for the Lung Association in Michigan.

“They say there is no cure for stage IV—I say there will be some day,” said Pickworth. “Until then, stable keeps me here until a cure can be found. The more money that is raised for research, the quicker they can find one or, at the very least, better treatment options.”

The Detroit LUNG FORCE Walk will be held at the Detroit Zoo on September 29. For more information on the event, or to register, visit the LUNG FORCE website.