'Breathe Deep Nashville' Steering Committee Chairman Named

Cutting-edge Lung Cancer Doctor Tapped To Lead Run/Walk Planning Committee

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pierre Massion, M.D., Ingram Associate Professor of Cancer Research at Vanderbilt University, has been named chairman of LUNGevity Foundation's "Breathe Deep Nashville" 5K Run/Walk steering committee.

Dr. Massion is a world-renowned and well-published expert on the early detection of lung cancer. As chairman of the steering committee, he will oversee the committee's efforts in planning, promoting and executing the event, which will raise much-needed funds for lung cancer research.

The inaugural "Breathe Deep Nashville" 5K Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Centennial Park. "Breathe Deep Nashville" is one of several events across the country this year hosted by LUNGevity, which has the largest grant awards program of any lung cancer organization in the United States.

"Raising funds for lung cancer research through community events such as 'Breathe Deep Nashville' gives everyone the opportunity to participate by walking, running, building a team or becoming a corporate sponsor," Dr. Massion said. "The latest national statistics show that lung cancer kills 160,000 people each year, yet current funding for lung cancer research is disproportionally low when compared to other prevalent cancers. There are many scientific opportunities to lead cutting-edge research in the field and improve the management of this devastating disease. We know that early detection saves lives. The researchers are ready to break new ground, and the patients are very supportive of this effort. Now we need the support of the community."

Visit www.breathedeepnashville.org for more information or to register for the "Breathe Deep Nashville" 5K Run/Walk.

About LUNGevity Foundation
The mission of LUNGevity Foundation is to have a meaningful and immediate impact on improving lung cancer survival rates, ensure a higher quality of life for lung cancer patients, and provide a community for those impacted by lung cancer. In order to accomplish its mission, LUNGevity funds the most promising research into the early detection and successful treatment of lung cancer. LUNGevity also supports the largest national grassroots lung cancer network. LUNGevity Foundation has received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, America's premier charity evaluator.

LUNGevity seeks to inspire the nation to commit to ending lung cancer. For more information, please visit www.lungevity.org.

SOURCE LUNGevity Foundation