A special message from Laurie Fenton Ambrose, President and CEO of Lung Cancer Alliance

 

It is with a very, very heavy heart that I share the news that our beloved board member, Richard Heimler, passed away on Saturday. We have been in touch with the Heimler family and have made arrangements to travel to Richard’s funeral today in Stamford, CT.

This is devastating for us all as Richard was such a touchstone – on so many levels – to so many people.  He beat back odds time and time again. He instilled hope, brought greater compassion to those touched by the disease, and with his own pioneering involvement with clinical trials, helped advance new breakthrough treatments for specific lung cancer mutations.

Richard was not just a LCA Board member who served with distinction and strong sense of purpose.  He was our friend and champion.  He battled his lung cancer with grit and grace – never hesitating for a moment to bring levity to any situation with his extraordinary wit and sense of humor. His friendships ran wide and deep. His words always full of encouragement and hope – giving us permission to feel and to share – reminding us that we were never alone. Richard literally touched thousands of lives – the depth of his goodness knowing no bounds.

We have lost a friend and colleague.  Our hearts are heavy.  But Richard left footprints for us to follow – and in his memory and honor – we will – and carry forth the work that meant so much to him and the community we serve.

To learn more about Richard, please view our 2014 announcement of his appointment to our Board of Directors.