Gerard “Gerry” Spencer is a U.S. Air Force Veteran, multi-cancer survivor, and advocate for Veteran lung cancer awareness and biomarker testing. In 2017, at age 72, he was diagnosed with stage 3A/3B non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)—his second of five primary cancer diagnoses. Following a lobectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, he has remained NED (no evidence of disease) for lung cancer ever since.
Biomarker testing of a subsequent pancreatic tumor revealed multiple somatic gene mutations, prompting Gerry to investigate his military service history. Stationed at a nuclear bomber base in Northern Maine during the Cold War, he later uncovered a 1992 congressional report documenting plutonium contamination that had been concealed from service members. He believes this exposure contributed to the genetic damage underlying his cancers.
Advocacy and Media Work
As a Voice of Hope in LCFA’s Breath of Honor program, Gerry brings a uniquely compelling perspective to conversations about Veteran lung cancer, biomarker testing, environmental accountability, and the long-term health consequences of military toxic exposure. His story challenges assumptions about who gets lung cancer and why—and makes a powerful case for comprehensive testing, transparency, and long-term monitoring for Veterans.
Gerry is also a published author. His memoir, Surviving Five Cancers, set for release in late Spring/early Summer 2026, explores survival, invisible histories, and resilience. All proceeds benefit the institutions that saved his life, making his advocacy both personal and philanthropic.
“People look at me and say, ‘No way you’ve had all that. But I have.”
His calm, matter-of-fact delivery and extraordinary story make him a memorable and credible media voice.
Key Messages
- Veteran lung cancer screening and biomarker testing are essential tools for understanding complex, multi-cancer diagnoses
- Military toxic exposure—including nuclear contamination—is an underrecognized lung cancer risk factor
- Government transparency and long-term monitoring for exposed Veterans are critical and overdue
- Survivorship is possible even after the most complex and unlikely diagnoses
