CT Student On Mission To Raise Lung Cancer Awareness
FAIRFIELD, Conn. (CBS 2) -- One Connecticut college student is on a mission to raise awareness about lung cancer after a loved one was diagnosed with the disease a few months ago.
Marissa Adamo, along with other students at Sacred Heart University, are mounting their "WEAR WHITE" campaign to bring attention to the deadly nature of the disease. Adamo was encouraging those on the campus to wear a white t-shirt to show their support for a cure on Monday.
According to the American Cancer Society, the overall 5-year survival rate is as low as 10.8 percent for men and 14.5 percent for women. In addition, 29 percent of all cancer deaths are caused by lung cancer.
"I really just want everyone to know that this is really out there," Adamo told CBS 2's Dana Tyler.
Adamo has already organized a walk to raise money for cancer research. She decided to become an activist after her boyfriend's father, a non smoker, was diagnosed in April.
"He is probably one of the most inspiring people I've ever met in my life and from that it really inspired me to kind of make a difference," Adamo said.
By Monday afternoon, it seemed like the campaign was catching on -- Lizzy Katz was among those participating.
"I know a lot of my friends have family members that have died from lung cancer so it kind of affects me," Katz said.
Adamo also said money for lung cancer research lagged behind that of other cancers. She hopes with more awareness that will change.
"I really want to spread the awareness and hopefully we can find a cure for this cancer," Adamo said.
