A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation is pleased to announce the winner of its first national Julie Swedberg YOLO Early Career Research Award. This award recognizes one individual for their outstanding contributions to the U.S. lung cancer research field and lung cancer patient outcomes.
After a highly competitive review process, the ABOH research teams chose Dr. Jessica Konen of Emory University Winship Cancer Institute to receive the award for her project entitled, “MiR-29 as a master regulator of anti-tumor immunity.” Dr. Konen’s work focuses on defining a novel mechanism of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitor treatments in lung cancer. It is important that we continue to invest in work that seeks to understand why therapies stop working in some patients.
Julie A. Swedberg, for whom the award is named, was 48 years old when she passed away peacefully in her sleep. She had never smoked, but unknown to her, she had other risk factors in her lifetime, such as exposure to radon and asbestos. Julie’s courageous seven-year battle with lung cancer ended on Saturday, April 1, 2023, leaving a loving husband, two teenaged sons and many family members and friends who miss her. She was a dear friend of and committed volunteer at ABOH, including her work as a patient voice and advocate on the ABOH research committee.
From the family of Julie Swedberg:
“Though Julie is no longer with us in body, she will forever remain a cherished presence in our lives – a beacon of hope and source of strength. As we reflect on her life and the profound impact she made on each of us and the lung cancer community, we are so thankful to have the 2024 YOLO award named for her. It will remind us of the importance of cherishing every moment, embracing every opportunity, and living each day with the same courage, grace, and unwavering determination that defined Julie’s remarkable spirit.
Congratulations to Dr. Konen, and to the lung cancer community that will profit from her work. Keep fighting and always remember, YOLO (you only live once)!”
– Eric, Owen and Charlie Swedberg, and Kris Erickson
