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Stories of Inspiration

Stories of survivors who've inspired us with their determination and hopeful spirit.

  • Carolyn Pyle

    Carolyn Pyle: Defying the Odds

    A stage IV lung cancer diagnosis didn’t stop Carolyn Pyle from remaining positive and living her life during and after her two-year treatment journey.

    “Cancer wasn’t my first choice, but we managed, thanks to great care and good fortune.”

    Carolyn Pyle
    Lung Cancer
  • Coral Delaplaine

    Coral Delaplaine: Treating Every Day as a Gift

    Coral Delaplaine worked as a teacher for years before facing a lung cancer diagnosis. While her time in the classroom may be over, we can all learn a lesson in facing adversity with grace after learning her story of positivity and perseverance throughout multiple lung cancer diagnoses over the past 16 years.

    “Live in the moment. Every day is a gift.”

    Coral Delaplaine
    Lung Cancer
  • James Miller

    James Miller: Treatment Targeted to His Lifestyle

    James Miller chose to enroll in a clinical trial of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for prostate cancer, allowing him to fight his disease with ease and continue his active lifestyle.

    “I was never afraid of my cancer diagnosis, but at my age, I didn’t want treatment to hold me back, or keep me from going on with my life as normal”

    James Miller
    Prostate Cancer
  • Sandra Overton

    Sandra Overton: Fighting Fear, Finding Positivity

    Sandra Overton learned the power of a positive mindset in her fight against lung cancer. Her personal mantra, “I won’t let cancer get me down,” helped Sandra navigate treatments and recovery.

    “I can’t say it enough, having a good outlook and a positive attitude makes all the difference.” (Sandra Overton pictured, fourth from left, with her co-workers)

    Sandra Overton
    Lung Cancer
  • Jackie Bush

    Jackie Bush: Fighting the Disease, Not the Diagnosis

    Jackie Bush found mental strength while enduring her 16-year fight against breast cancer. Her mindset, and personal mantra, “fight the disease, not the diagnosis,” has helped her cope with challenges of living with cancer long term.

    “I think my biggest suggestion to a lot of people has been to fight the disease with everything you've got in you, but don't fight the diagnosis."

    Jackie Bush
    Breast Cancer
  • Debra Campbell

    Debra Campbell: Nurse Gains New Insight into Caregiving

    As a nurse and faculty member at El Centro College, breast cancer patient Debra Campbell dedicated her life to helping patients and caregivers learn and thrive. But, she found her role as a patient equally as educational as her time as a nurse.

    “It’s a cliché, but there are no stupid questions. Ask lots of questions. Make sure you’re getting mammograms and screenings on time. It’s important not to be scared, just get it done.” (Also pictured Dr. Anand Shivnani.)

    Debra Campbell
    Breast Cancer