There is Hope: Celebrating 3 Years Cancer Free

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, but there is hope! More Americans than ever are surviving lung cancer. In fact, the survival rate has increased by over 50% in the past decade. 

“After receiving my stage 3 lung cancer diagnosis, my doctor said, ‘you have a good chance of beating this because of new treatments and research over the last several years,’” Karen Undieme said. 

That was back in 2021. She had her right lobe removed and went through several months of treatment but she never gave up hope. Now, she’s celebrating being cancer free by spreading a hopeful message to help others that are going through the same experience. 

“I want to be a ray of hope for people going through this,” Undieme said. 

She will join hundreds of participants and volunteers at the 11th annual LUNG FORCE Walk at the Detroit Zoo (8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067) on September 29 at 7:30 a.m.

Friends and families can enjoy a nice fall morning walk and Zoo visit for a good cause. The event is held to support lifesaving research, local programs and advocacy for the 1.1 million people in Detroit suffering from lung disease. 

Registration isopen for the event which welcomes hundreds of families, friends, co-workers, including lung disease survivors and loved ones. 

Participants will enjoy a 1.5-mile route (untimed) through the Detroit Zoo (which will be closed to the public during the event) or they can choose a shorter option. The Lung Association encourages you to join us at this community event for celebration, education and comradery. Registration for individuals and teams for the LUNG FORCE Walk is free, but fundraising is encouraged to support the mission of the American Lung Association. Participants will receive complimentary Zoo admission.

For more information, and to register, visit LUNGFORCE.org/Detroit.