The Lifelong Scientist Who Turned Personal Adversity into Groundbreaking Advocacy

At age 65, product development scientist and materials researcher Wells W. experienced persistent shortness of breath, a nagging cough, and unexplained weight loss. Unaware these symptoms indicated anything more serious than overwork, he eventually visited his doctor at the insistence of his wife and a close family friend. In 1998, diagnostic tests confirmed stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a prognosis of only 10 months to live.

Facing the shock of advanced lung cancer, he retired the very day of his diagnosis and immersed himself in extensive research. Seeking innovative solutions, Wells interviewed multiple doctors to find the one most open to trying less conventional approaches. The first several months involved intense chemotherapy, successfully reducing the major lung tumor by 50%. That achievement prompted a lobectomy, removing his largest tumor. Post-surgery, additional chemotherapy targeted 19 new, smaller tumors that had emerged, ultimately shrinking them to only four residual spots.

Around this time, researchers were starting to examine the genetics of various cancers. Wells learned he carried an EGFR mutation, enabling him to access a compassionate use trial for a novel treatment called gefitinib (Iressa). He also used celecoxib (Celebrex) for pain and inflammation. Years later, clinical trials would confirm the effectiveness of these medications for advanced lung cancer. Determined to remain informed, he scoured libraries, attended major oncology conferences, and forged relationships with top specialists. This drive to understand his disease led to founding new forms of patient support, including a men’s-only support circle that fulfilled spiritual, social, and psychological needs.

After stabilizing his condition, Wells continued advocating for lung cancer patients by sharing his experience in talks and videos. He co-founded the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation—which later merged to become GO2 for Lung Cancer—and currently serves on its Leadership Circle. Now 91, he remains actively involved in lung cancer advocacy, attributing his extended survival and enduring quality of life to persistent research, novel treatment options, and dedicated partnerships between doctors and patients..