Squirrel Hill Lung Cancer Survivor Walks at Inaugural Free to Breathe Event

PITTSBURGH, PA – June 24, 2013 – Carolyn Olbum is a Squirrel Hill resident in her late seventies who was diagnosed with lung cancer at age 68. She has been cancer free for almost eight years now. On June 16, Carolyn was joined by family and friends walking with “Team Olbum” in the inaugural Pittsburgh “Free to Breathe”, a 5K/1-mile walk in North Park that raised funds for the Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Partnership. Team Olbum collectively raised over $2,500.

The event brought together over 230 participants including lung cancer survivors, fighters, family members and friends to raise awareness and much-needed funding for lung cancer research.

Carolyn Olbum is not only a wife, mother, grandmother and dear friend to many, she is also an accomplished sculptor and artist with work shown in galleries nationally.

She recalls how her grandson was visiting one day and heard her coughing and suggested that she go see a doctor.  He was only fifteen at the time. This ultimately led to her lung cancer diagnosis. Carolyn now refers to it as her “life-saving cough.”

Carolyn’s survivor story is one of humility and grace. She recounts how the most important thing she learned while going through her cancer treatment was that “it’s ok to not be so brave sometimes” and that with the love and support of family you can face whatever comes your way.

In Carolyn’s words, “I’m here. I don’t take one day for granted and I always try to enjoy at least one part of my day – as little as it may be.”