Today is the day Andrew and I would have celebrated 41 years together. 

In honor of our life together, I am hoping to work towards finding treatments and a cure for the lung cancer mutation he had. It is so rare that there just is not enough known about it and research needs to continue. 

Andrew had numerous treatments which only were able to keep the tumors at bay for 3-4 months at a time. There were side effects from the medications, some of which were quite severe for Andrew. All of his treatments were part of clinical trials. Since he began this journey two have become approved because of the amazing work of  research oncologists and the brave people who battled this cancer.   

I have created a fund, along with ICAN and the amazing patient advocate, Marcia Horn, who helped us every step of the way, to work towards research and a cure for Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Exon 20 patients. I am also honoring his research oncologist, Dr. Danny Nguyen, who is continuing in this battle, as well as the many patients who are so brave and strong in the face of this adversity. 

I hope you will find it in your heart to contribute, even a small amount, to save others the heartache and grief we experienced. In honor of our life together, I hope to make a difference. Our children, Elissa, Adam and Abra, their partners, John, Amy and Tim, join me in thanking you for any help you feel appropriate and any photos or comments you would like to leave at the site. 

Here is the link. Please turn a day that was filled with love 41 years ago into a day of hope for others:

https://www.askican.org/namedprograms/asussman.html

As you scroll down you will find photos of inspiration, a place to write and leave photos, and a way to donate. 

Thank you and as always, with love and gratitude,

Lydia