Gov. Paul LePage recognized the lung cancer community by signing the first proclamation declaring Aug. 1 as Lung Cancer Survivor Day.

This is a major milestone in the support of those touched by this disease, which is so stigmatized it often leaves survivors unable to speak out for fear of that dreaded question “Did you smoke?”

Sen. Roger Katz helped to make this happen. Katz has been a strong supporter for the lung cancer community starting when he was mayor of Augusta. His support has followed to the Senate office.

Betsy Thompson, founder of Lung Cancer Survivors Foundation, initiated this grass-roots effort across the United States.

Many states and cities recognized Aug. 1 as Lung Cancer Survivor Day, a day of celebration.

Deb Violette, survivor,

Founder, president

Lung Cancer Free Alliance

Augusta