What happened, in summary

Jennifer Rosato Perea learned she had lung cancer only because imaging was ordered before a hysterectomy in late 2020. She had no symptoms and did not think lung cancer could apply to her because she was not a smoker and had no family history. After the MRI finding, she delayed follow-up for months because the diagnosis felt so unlikely. Eventually, testing confirmed Stage I lung cancer. In February 2022, Jennifer had a lobectomy that removed the lower right lobe of her lung. Because the cancer was Stage I, she did not need additional treatment: no chemotherapy, radiation, or clinical trial therapy. Jennifer spent the next 9-plus months healing and rebuilding strength in her right lung. Four months after surgery, she ran a half marathon. She later joined Team LCRF for the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon to raise money for lung cancer research and show that survivors can remain active. Jennifer described herself as cancer-free after surgery and credited research and her medical team with giving her the best chance to maintain both survival and quality of life. Her recovery story centers on early detection, surgery, exercise, and self-advocacy.