Hi friends,

My name is Lauren Coye, I am 27 years old and I have lung cancer.

Back before my cancer diagnosis in 2022, I have always stride to give to the cancer community. I'd donate my hair, I'd make hundreds of holiday cards each year to send to different cancer centers, I've been apart of St.Jude virtual bike rides etc.

So when I got my diagnosis at 24 years old, it didn't stop my advocacy for cancer patients; but only pushed it foreward.

In January 2022, I was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer. I've never smoked, I don't live with smokers, I have no family history of lung cancer, no high levels of radon etc. The type of lung cancer I have accounts for less than 1% of all lung cancers, including the non smokers and smokers. There currently is no known cause for my type of cancer and not a lot of cases to go off of.

In March of 2022 I had 2/3 of my right lung removed due to my cancer. I was told I would never hike again, I'd never run that I would struggle to even go up a flight of stairs. 2 months later I beat the odds and won a 5k. I've hiked multiple 6,000+ footers and even ran a half marathon in Alaska despite having most of my right lung missing

I am living proof that cancer cannot define us. That we can beat the stigma and that anyone with lungs can get lung cancer.

this year I ride for Diane Legg, who Lead Team LungStrong for years

I am also riding this year in memory of those I have lost in the lung cancer community. I also ride for those who are still with us fighting everyday; My lung cancer friends who lift me up and help me through every breath.

I ride for my best friend, my Papa, who passed from cancer 9 years ago. 

I ride for my family who have passed or have dealt with this disease and those who have supported and loved me during these past 2 years

i ride for the kids I know with this illness, the ones who are stronger than we will ever be

I ride for myself.

I am very happy to be joinin Team LungStrong! The LungStrong community was the first to welcome me to the world of cancer after my diagnosis and have been nothing but inspirational, supportive and kind.

I'm a proud supporter of the PMC because it is leading a charge to beat cancer. In fact, last year 100% of rider-raised revenue went directly to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's tireless commitment to finding a cure.