When Jamie Ellefson of Littleton, Colorado, was diagnosed with lung cancer at age 45, her journey began with a left lower lobectomy in October 2021, followed by four rounds of chemotherapy. At that time, she was Stage 2B.
After treatment, Jamie was NED (No Evidence of Disease) for 11 months. Then she experienced a recurrence in three areas. In July 2023, she started treatment with Retevmo and remained stable until May 2026, when a PET scan showed two areas of progression in her left pleural lining. On May 13, she underwent surgery to remove one of the tumors. Her next steps include radiation, four rounds of chemotherapy, and an increased dose of Retevmo.
Throughout treatment, Jamie found strength in simple but essential things: lots of sleep, anti-nausea medications, and the support of family and friends. One friend organized a meal train, which provided tremendous help during difficult days. Therapy also played an important role in helping her navigate the emotional side of cancer.
Another source of support came from connecting with other cancer patients through private Facebook groups and organizations such as YLCI, RET Renegades, The Happy Lungs Project, Imerman Angels, Epic Experience, Camp, Domis Pacis, Kids Alive, Camp Kesem, LUNGevity, Sights and Insights, One Day to Remember, and Wish Upon a Wedding.
These communities helped Jamie feel less alone.
“It made me feel like I wasn’t alone on an island and that there actually were other people out there that understand what I am going through.”
The friendships she formed through these groups have had a lasting impact on her life.
Cancer has taught Jamie to live in the present moment and stop worrying about the past or the future. She focuses on enjoying each day, not sweating the small things, and putting her energy into the things she can control instead of worrying about those she cannot.
She has also learned that cancer is part of her life, but it does not define her.
Maintaining a positive mindset has not always been easy, but Jamie continues to work on it every day. She reminds herself that she does not want to be just another cancer victim. She wants to use her voice and advocate for others diagnosed with lung cancer. Being involved with lung cancer organizations helps her stay connected, engaged, and positive.
One moment that deeply impacted her outlook came after losing two dear friends to lung cancer. One day, she was complaining to her husband about a mundane task she had to do. He gently reminded her that both of those friends would give anything to have even fifteen more minutes on this earth.
That conversation changed her perspective.
Instead of thinking, “I have to do something,” she now tries to think, “I get to do something,” and to be grateful that she is still here and able to do it.
For others facing a similar journey, Jamie’s advice is simple:
Live in the present.
From the day of diagnosis, she encourages patients to find ways to connect with other young cancer patients.
“It truly makes all the difference in the world.”
Jamie also encourages others to look for the silver lining, even in the most difficult parts of the cancer journey.
Today, she continues moving forward with the support of her family, friends, fellow cancer thrivers, and the communities that have helped her along the way. Her story is a reminder that while cancer may become part of someone’s life, it does not define who they are.
Jamie is a member of our Community Advisory Board and we are happy to have her as a part of the team!
