Clara Mae Cirks was an avid runner when persistent back pain, initially mistaken for a routine athletic injury, led to a life-changing diagnosis. By early 2025, severe fatigue, lightheadedness, and swollen lymph nodes prompted her to push for urgent answers, revealing Stage 4 metastasized lung cancer that had spread to her spine.
Her treatment journey initially involved six rounds of chemotherapy, brain radiation, and immunotherapy targeting an MSH6 biomarker. When scans showed disease progression in late 2025, Clara Mae advocated for comprehensive re-testing, discovering an ALK-positive status that unlocked effective targeted therapy.
Through her online advocacy and media appearances—including her “Questions with Clara” series—she actively educates the public, dispels the myth that lung cancer only affects older individuals or smokers, and provides an empowering voice for fellow patients.
Clara’s Key Speaking Topics
- Breaking the Stigma: Raising awareness that lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or smoking history—”anyone with lungs can get lung cancer”.
- The Power of Biomarker Re-Testing: Navigating disease progression and advocating for comprehensive genetic profiling to unlock targeted therapies.
- Social Media as Patient Advocacy: Utilizing digital platforms to foster honest dialogue, offer peer support, and educate the broader public.
- Partnering with Your Care Team: Empowering patients to ask tough questions, seek second opinions, and act as active partners in their care.
