April Vokes’ cancer journey has been one of unexpected challenges, deep faith, and remarkable hope.
Living in Marion, Michigan, April was 48 years old when she learned she had Stage IV lung cancer caused by a RET gene mutation. As a non-smoker, this diagnosis was something she never expected. It was also her second battle with cancer. Years earlier, from August 2016 to November 2019, April faced breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy.
When lung cancer became part of her story, April turned to the strength that had carried her through difficult times before: her faith.
Her current treatment is daily targeted therapy with Gavreto, and throughout this journey she has placed her trust completely in God.
“Giving control completely over to God.”
April prays the rosary every day with her husband and has been surrounded by countless prayer warriors and rosary prayer groups who continue to lift her up in prayer.
Cancer has taught April an important lesson:
“It’s in God’s hands, not mine.”
That belief has helped her remain grounded and hopeful, even during moments of uncertainty.
One of the most meaningful moments in April’s journey came after she began targeted therapy. At her three-month scan, she received news that brought incredible hope. Several tumors in both of her lungs, four spots of cancer in her spine, her left shoulder, both hips, abdomen, and left femur had healed.
Today, April continues to be monitored closely at MD Anderson every three months with PET scans, brain MRIs, bloodwork, and appointments with her oncologist to make sure her targeted therapy continues to work. She still has two tumors in her right lung that do not show uptake, and she continues forward with faith and determination.
Through everything she has faced, April wants others on a similar journey to remember:
“Always look up to God, stay positive and never give up even when you think you can’t fight anymore!”
Her story is a testament to the strength that can come from faith, family, and hope. After facing cancer twice, April continues to move forward with courage, trusting in God and believing that every day is another opportunity to keep fighting.
April is a member of our Community Advisory Board and we are happy to have her as a part of the team!
