When Carrie Griffin was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer at age 62, she learned that the disease had spread to her brain, hips, sacrum, ribs, and scapula. Before the results of her genetic testing were available, she was given a very grim forecast.

That moment could have filled her with fear, but instead it became one of the most meaningful turning points in her journey.

That night, in a hotel room, Carrie and her mother prayed together for healing and a miracle.

“I fell asleep that night with an overwhelming sense of peace,” she recalls. “That the Lord was not done with me, to go seek out a way to help others, surround myself with what brings me joy and to not give up.”

That sense of peace became a foundation for everything that followed.

Carrie’s treatment included radiation to her sacrum and hip, along with Retevmo. Alongside conventional treatment, she explored integrative approaches including hyperbaric chamber therapy, red light therapy, and acupuncture.

When asked what helped her most during treatment, her answer is immediate:

“GOD first and foremost.”

She also credits integrative therapies, her faith, and the support of her family for helping her navigate the challenges of cancer.

Throughout her journey, Carrie sought to understand not only her diagnosis but also what was happening within her body. Working with an integrative wellness physician, reading integrative therapy books, and researching different approaches helped her better understand her options.

“It helped me better understand what was happening to my body and multiple options with regards to healing.”

Cancer continues to teach her important lessons. While she says she is still learning, one area of focus has been understanding the body at a cellular level and learning which foods help and which foods may hurt.

Her advice to others reflects the approach she has taken throughout her own experience:

“Research… look outside the box, be your own advocate and never stop asking questions.”

Maintaining a positive mindset has come down to two things that have remained constant throughout her journey:

Faith and family.

Together, they have provided strength, encouragement, and hope during difficult moments.

For others facing a similar diagnosis, Carrie encourages patients to become active participants in their own care.

“Get to know and understand your body.”

She believes it is important not to rely solely on what doctors tell you, but to continue learning, asking questions, and exploring both integrative and conventional therapies.

Today, Carrie’s story is one of faith, perseverance, and advocacy. Faced with a diagnosis that came with a grim outlook, she chose not to give up. Instead, she chose to seek understanding, pursue healing, surround herself with joy, and continue moving forward one day at a time.

Her message is simple:

“Be your own advocate. Never stop asking questions. And never give up.”

Carrie is a member of our Community Advisory Board and we are happy to have her as a part of the team!