Lung Leavin’ Day

Lung Leavin’ Day is observed annually on February 2. This day commemorates the life-saving surgery of mesothelioma survivor Heather Von St. James, who had her left lung removed on this date in 2006. It has since evolved into a global movement for cancer patients, survivors, and their families to face their fears, celebrate their resilience, and raise awareness for asbestos-related diseases. ¹

History of Lung Leavin’ Day

The holiday began in 2006 following Heather Von St. James’s diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Given only 15 months to live after the birth of her daughter, Heather opted for a radical surgical procedure known as an extrapleural pneumonectomy. On February 2, 2006, Dr. David Sugarbaker removed her entire left lung, along with her pleura, diaphragm, and pericardium. To lighten the mood before the high-stakes operation, Heather’s sister nicknamed the date “Lung Leavin’ Day,” a name that the family embraced to transform a terrifying medical event into a milestone of hope.

The first official celebration took place in 2007 on the one-year anniversary of the surgery. Heather and her husband, Cameron, invited friends and family to their home to celebrate her survival. During this gathering, they established the central tradition of the holiday: writing fears on ceramic plates and smashing them into a fire pit. This symbolic act was designed to represent the literal destruction of the anxieties that accompany a cancer diagnosis. Over the past two decades, the event has grown from a private family dinner into an international day of awareness supported by the mesothelioma community.

Why is Lung Leavin’ Day important?

Lung Leavin’ Day is significant because it shifts the narrative of cancer from one of victimhood to one of empowerment. It provides a dedicated time for survivors to acknowledge the trauma of their journey while publicly declaring their intent to live fully. By focusing on “smashing fears,” the holiday addresses the psychological toll of chronic illness, helping participants find the mental strength to move past the statistics and prognoses that often define their lives. It serves as a living testament to medical progress and the power of radical surgical intervention.

The day also plays a crucial role in public health advocacy regarding asbestos. Since mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by asbestos fibers, the holiday serves as a platform to demand a total ban on the mineral in the United States and other countries where it remains legal. It raises vital funds for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, supporting the search for a cure. For the thousands of people diagnosed with this specific cancer each year, the day offers a sense of community and the “poster child for hope” that Heather Von St. James represents.

• It marks the anniversary of a groundbreaking surgery that defied a terminal prognosis.
• The holiday encourages the emotional release of fears through symbolic actions.
• It raises global awareness about the ongoing dangers of asbestos exposure.
• The event fosters a supportive community for those battling rare respiratory cancers.
• It generates funding for research into new treatments and diagnostic tools.

How to Celebrate Lung Leavin’ Day

The most iconic way to celebrate is by participating in the plate-smashing tradition. Participants take a ceramic plate and use a permanent marker to write down their greatest fears, whether related to health, finances, or personal doubts. In a safe environment, such as a backyard fire pit or a designated “smash room,” they throw the plate into the fire or against a hard surface. This physical act is intended to provide a sense of catharsis and a visible reminder that fears can be broken.

Beyond the smashing of plates, people celebrate by sharing their survival stories on social media to inspire others who may be newly diagnosed. Many choose to wear silver or blue ribbons, which are the colors associated with mesothelioma and lung cancer awareness. Since the holiday is rooted in gratitude, it is also common to make a donation to cancer research organizations in honor of a loved one. For those who cannot participate in a physical gathering, lighting a candle or journaling about personal victories serves as a quiet but meaningful way to observe the spirit of the day.

• Write your current worries or obstacles on an old ceramic plate.
• Smash the plate into a fire pit to symbolize overcoming those fears.
• Share your own “cancerversary” or survival milestone online to encourage others.
• Donate to a foundation dedicated to mesothelioma or lung cancer research.
• Reach out to a cancer survivor to celebrate their strength and resilience.

Lung Leavin’ Day Dates Table

1. https://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/lung-leavin-day/[↩]