What type of cancer did Kevin Humphrey have?

Humphrey was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small cell adenocarcinoma lung cancer.

How did Humphrey's athletic background help him during his cancer treatment?

Humphrey's experience as an endurance athlete, regularly participating in ultramarathons and other intense events, helped him maintain a positive mindset and push through the difficult recovery process after his lung surgery.

What major event did Humphrey complete after his cancer treatment?

Just over a year after his diagnosis, Humphrey completed the Ironman 70.3 race, which includes a 1-mile swim, 56.1-mile bike ride, and 13.2-mile run.

Home / Health / Endurance Athlete Beats Stage IV Lung Cancer, Completes Ironman Race

Endurance Athlete Beats Stage IV Lung Cancer, Completes Ironman Race

15 Nov

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Summary

Endurance athlete diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in May 2024
Underwent aggressive treatment, including surgery to remove half his lung
Completed Ironman 70.3 race just over a year after diagnosis
Currently has no evidence of disease and remains on immunotherapy

Endurance Athlete Beats Stage IV Lung Cancer, Completes Ironman Race

In January 2024, endurance athlete Kevin Humphrey from Michigan began experiencing persistent back pain and coughing. After several tests, he was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer in May 2024, shocking him as a non-smoker with no family history of the disease.

Doctors at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago identified a driver mutation that was fueling the cancer's growth. This allowed them to develop an aggressive treatment plan combining targeted immunotherapy and chemotherapy. By August 2024, the tumor had shrunk enough for Humphrey to undergo surgery, where doctors removed about half of his left lung.