Two Stories, One Message: Lung Cancer Doesn’t Wait, Neither Should You

Summary Paragraph

Lung cancer often develops without symptoms, making early detection critical. The stories of two St. Elizabeth Healthcare patients, Joseph Steuart and Brian Holtkamp, highlight how routine screening, self-advocacy and timely care can lead to potentially life-saving outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• Lung cancer can develop silently, making recommended screenings essential for early detection in people at higher risk.
• Recommended screenings and self-advocacy can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes.
• When detected early, lung cancer is more likely to be treated successfully.

A Routine Screening That Saved a Life

For Joseph Steuart, his journey began with a routine decision: finding a new primary care provider. During a physical, his doctor recommended a low-dose CT lung cancer screen because of his history of smoking. It was a simple step that ended up saving his life.

Joseph shared that, at first, his scans were clear. But in 2023, a scan revealed a nodule in his lung. Years of smoking and a family history of lung cancer meant he understood the seriousness immediately. After additional testing, his care team recommended surgery to remove part of his lung.

Joseph trusted the process and his care team. His surgeon carefully explained what to expect, helping him approach the procedure with confidence rather than fear. He underwent state-of-the-art robotic lung surgery.

The surgery was successful, and Joseph did not require further treatment as his lung cancer was caught early. Today, he reflects on his experience with gratitude and a renewed commitment to his health.

“If you smoke, quit. That is so important. Go to your doctor and listen to your doctor.”

Listening to Instinct and Taking Action

For Brian Holtkamp, the path to diagnosis looked very different but was equally powerful.

His story began with an unrelated heart procedure. During a CT scan to evaluate his heart structure for the procedure, doctors found small nodules on his lungs and monitored them for several years. Over time, Brian became more aware of the risks after seeing friends face serious health challenges, including cancer.

That awareness led him to speak up.

During a routine checkup, Brian asked his doctor to order another CT scan. That decision proved critical when the scan showed slight growth in a lung nodule. A biopsy confirmed lung cancer.

Despite the fear that came with the diagnosis, Brian found reassurance in his care team.

“I was scared and worried, but my doctor made me feel at ease,” Brian said. “He was confident that he could remove my stage I cancer and he did just that.”

Brian also underwent robotic surgery to remove the affected portion of his lung. His recovery was smooth, and follow-up scans continue to show negative results. Today, he embraces his role as a survivor and values the opportunity to share his story.

“Lung cancer is a silent killer. Thankfully, if found in time, it can be cured.”

One Message, Two Journeys

While Joseph and Brian’s stories are different, they are connected by one powerful truth: early detection can make a meaningful difference.

Joseph followed his doctor’s advice for routine screenings. This helped his care team find cancer at the right time. Brian, on the other hand, advocated for himself and took the initiative to request additional testing. Both actions led to early diagnosis and successful outcomes.

Their journeys also highlight how lung cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often more advanced. That’s why screening is so important, especially for those at higher risk.

 Understanding Your Risk

Lung cancer risks vary from person to person, but some common factors include:

• A history of smoking.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Family history of lung cancer.
• Radon exposure.
• Certain environmental or workplace exposures.

Low-dose CT scans are a proven way to detect lung cancer early, when it is most treatable. These screenings are quick, non-invasive and can be life-saving. Visit our website to learn more about lung cancer screening options at St. Elizabeth.

Take the Next Step for Your Health

Lung cancer does not always present warning signs, but early detection can change everything. Whether it’s scheduling recommended screenings or speaking up about concerns, taking action matters.

If you or a loved one may be at risk, start by talking with your primary care provider about whether lung cancer screening is right for you. Use our Find a Doctor tool to schedule an appointment or find a primary care provider who can help you understand your risk and next steps. To learn more about comprehensive cancer services, visit St. Elizabeth Cancer Care.

Medically reviewed by Michael Gieske, MD, on 7/17/26.