Alecensa is a powerful, targeted medicine that treats ALK-positive lung cancer. We wanted to balance the drug’s success in treating patients’ physical symptoms of the disease by also providing an emotional benefit to combat the isolation most of them feel. The ALK Positivity Project brought a number of these individuals together in a live, unscripted experience to make genuine connections between real patients. In these moments, we reveal that they are no longer alone in their journey with the disease.

In September 2016, we invited three people from across the country (Los Angeles, South Dakota, New York) to illustrate their stories with ALK-positive (ALK+) lung cancer. We provided supplies for decorating blank lung sculptures and allotted time for each person to complete their project in an isolated area. Each person thought they were working alone.

When it came time to present their work, we escorted each person to large doors and instructed them to place their lungs on a white podium beyond the door. The doors opened and THREE podiums were visible. They began walking toward them. Until this moment, none of them were aware of each other’s participation. Soon, they realized they all have ALK+ lung cancer—an unexpected surprise for a disease that affects such a small population. It was the first time any of them had physically stood next to someone else with the same disease.

By establishing The ALK Positivity Project, Alecensa moved beyond simply being a medicine for ALK-positive (ALK+) lung cancer. It created positive, emotional connections to the people it treats.

Three strangers forged a bond that will give them newfound strength and support, lasting long after this single experience. When the population of people diagnosed with a disease is this small, EACH life affected makes a difference—success is measured in increments of one, rather than millions. Now, Matt, Sandy, and Sarah no longer travel the journey alone.

With the event deemed a success among these three participants, we are currently in the process of finding ways to share their experience with other members of the rare ALK+ patient population. The ALK Positivity Project will continue beyond the event as we think up surprising, new ways to bring positivity to ALK+ patients in future iterations of the Project.