From the President’s Desk
Dr. Rosalyn Juergens
Reflections, insights, and updates.
A New Chapter for Lung Cancer Canada — Continuing the Momentum, Together
As I begin my term as President of Lung Cancer Canada, I do so with deep humility — and a powerful sense of purpose.
We are at a pivotal moment in lung cancer care. Science is moving faster than ever. Treatments are becoming more personalized. Survival rates are improving. And yet, for far too many people, these advances remain out of reach. Delays in diagnosis, limited access to biomarker testing, and systemic barriers to treatment continue to impact patients and families across the country.
The need for action — and for equity — has never been clearer.
I’ve been part of the Lung Cancer Canada community for over a decade — as a medical oncologist, clinical researcher, and longtime member of our Medical Advisory Committee. I’ve seen how this organization shows up: with courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to those living with and affected by lung cancer.
From our trusted patient guides and webinars to our summits, campaigns, and advocacy wins — Lung Cancer Canada is making a real and lasting difference. But there is still much to do. And we are just getting started.
A Vision Grounded in Equity, Community, and Impact
This next chapter is not about changing direction — it’s about building on a strong foundation. Our mission remains clear: to improve the lives of everyone affected by lung cancer through advocacy, support, public awareness, and research.
Advocacy will continue to be a key driver of change. Guided by data and lived experience, we are advancing a national agenda focused on five critical system challenges:
- Equity in screening access — because early detection shouldn’t depend on your postal code
- Timely, comprehensive biomarker testing — because precision medicine must become standard care
- Faster access to effective treatments — because time is life, and delays are unacceptable
- Increased investment in research — because innovation saves lives, and lung cancer deserves its fair share
- Broader access to clinical trials — because all patients, in all communities, should benefit from cutting-edge research
These are not abstract goals — they are the changes that determine outcomes and restore hope. But we also know that policy change alone isn’t enough. Equally vital are the support services, education, and connections that help patients and families navigate this disease every day.
That’s why we will continue to invest in compassionate support, expand public awareness, and amplify stories of survivorship and resilience — stories that challenge stigma, change perceptions, and inspire action.
Leading With Gratitude and Resolve
To Dr. Stephanie Snow — thank you. Your leadership has been defined by empathy, inclusion, and impact. You helped shape Lung Cancer Canada into a more connected, national, and equity-driven organization. I’m honoured to carry that momentum forward.
And to everyone who makes up this remarkable community — thank you for the work you’ve done and the work we’ll do together. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, clinician, nurse, researcher, advocate, or ally — you are part of a movement that is changing the future of lung cancer in Canada.
We’ve come a long way. But there’s more to do.
I promise to lead with open ears, open arms, and a fierce belief in what we can accomplish — together.
With gratitude and determination,
Dr. Rosalyn Juergens
President, Lung Cancer Canada