Libby's Lungs is a State of Pennsylvania registered Nonprofit Corporation (IRS designation pending) dedicated to serving the lung cancer community with compassion, commitment, and purpose. Our focus is to alleviate the burden of lung cancer by championing two primary objectives: funding innovative research with a special focus on women and lung cancer, and underwriting vital support services for lung cancer patients.
At Libby's Lungs, we recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals affected by lung cancer, particularly women who are disproportionately impacted by this disease. Through our unwavering dedication, we strive to foster groundbreaking research initiatives that delve into the complexities of lung cancer, with a special emphasis on understanding its manifestations in women. By supporting cutting-edge research endeavors, we aim to pioneer advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately striving towards a future free from the grip of lung cancer.
In addition to our commitment to research, Libby's Lungs is deeply invested in helping underwrite support services to lung cancer patients and their families. We understand that navigating the journey of lung cancer can be financially daunting, and our organization seeks to provide practical assistance to patients as we endeavor to empower individuals with the tools they need to confront lung cancer with resilience and hope.
Donation
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80% of donations support Lung Cancer research with an emphasis Women and Lung Cancer Research
Our primary support has been to assist in underwriting Dr. Stabile’s work at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Her research focuses on the role of growth factors and hormones in non-small cell lung cancer development. Her laboratory seeks to examine the link between inflammation and estrogen signaling, identify dietary factors that modify risk, and develop novel therapies and prevention strategies for current lung cancer patients. Research updates from Dr. Stable can be found here.
While our primary support is provided to Dr. Stabile’s research, the Libby’s Lungs Board of Directors may also consider directing grants to other nationally recognized lung cancer organizations or top tier research facilitates if they believe funding from Libby’s Lungs will make a meaningful impact for lung cancer patients.
20% of donations support Patient Support Services
These funds are intended to reduce the barriers patients may face when seeking treatment and to improve their quality of life during treatment. Support services will vary but may include initiatives such as underwriting parking costs, providing no-cost accommodations through local organizations like Family House, and assisting with out-of-pocket costs for wellness services that are often times not covered by insurance but a critical to many patients well being.
Lung cancer claims more women’s lives than breast, uterine, and cervical cancers combined.
Alarmingly, while lung cancer rates are declining in other populations, the number of cases in younger (under 50) non-smoking women has been on the rise. Women with no known risk factors are more than twice as likely to develop lung cancer as men. Unfortunately, research funding doesn’t adequately reflect this reality. Funding for other cancers far outpaces that for lung cancer, even though all it takes for anyone to be at risk for lung cancer is having lungs.
