What is Lung Leavin’ Day?

Lung Leavin’ Day, observed annually on February 2 in the United States and other countries, is a unique and inspiring day dedicated to overcoming personal fears. It was created by Heather Von St. James, a survivor of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

In 2005, at the age of 36, Heather was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma and faced a grim prognosis. To combat the disease, she underwent a life-altering surgical procedure called extrapleural pneumonectomy, which involved removing her left lung. The date of her surgery, February 2, 2006, became a turning point in her life. Heather’s sister jokingly referred to it as “Lung Leavin’ Day,” a name that stuck and has since become a powerful symbol of resilience.

History and Origin

Lung Leavin’ Day was born from Heather Von St. James’s personal battle with mesothelioma. Following her surgery, Heather and her family turned the date into an annual tradition. Each year, they gather to write their fears on ceramic plates and smash them into a bonfire. This symbolic act represents breaking free from anxieties and celebrating courage.

Over time, the event evolved beyond Heather’s immediate circle. Lung Leavin’ Day has become a source of inspiration for many others facing their own challenges, encouraging them to confront fears and embrace resilience. The day also serves as a fundraiser for mesothelioma research and awareness, helping to raise significant funds for the cause.

Who Celebrates Lung Leavin’ Day?

• Cancer Survivors and Patients: Use the day as a source of strength and solidarity, reflecting on their journeys.
• Families and Friends of Survivors: Join in the celebration to show support and honor loved ones.
• Advocacy Groups and Charities: Host events and campaigns to raise awareness about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure.
• Community Members: Participate in the symbolic rituals of the day, such as writing fears and smashing plates, as a way to confront their own struggles.
• Medical Professionals and Researchers: Use the day to highlight advancements in cancer treatment and advocate for ongoing research.

Themes and Slogans

The central theme of Lung Leavin’ Day is courage in the face of fear. It emphasizes the power of resilience and the importance of addressing life’s challenges head-on. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of community, as it highlights the role of support systems in overcoming adversity.

A key reflection tied to the day is “Smash your fears, ignite your courage,” encapsulating the symbolic act of breaking free from anxieties and embracing personal strength. The bonfire and smashed plates represent not just personal growth but also the communal strength that comes from sharing struggles and triumphs.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• White: Represents resilience and hope, aligning with the purity of renewed courage.
• Orange: Reflects the flames of the bonfire, symbolizing transformation and energy.
• Blue: Evokes calm and solidarity, tying to the healing journey.

Symbols:

• Plates: Represent fears and anxieties written down and smashed as an act of liberation.
• Bonfire: Symbolizes the destruction of fear and the warmth of community support.
• Phoenix: Reflects rebirth and rising stronger after hardship.

Patterns:

• Cracked Lines: Symbolize the breaking of barriers and fears.
• Flame Motifs: Represent transformation, courage, and renewal.
• Spirals: Depict the ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery.

How to Celebrate Lung Leavin’ Day

• Write and Smash Fears: Follow the tradition by writing your fears on plates or pieces of paper and destroying them as a symbolic act of courage.
• Host a Bonfire: Gather friends and family around a fire to reflect on challenges and celebrate resilience.
• Raise Awareness: Share stories and information about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure to educate others.
• Support Charities: Donate to organizations focused on mesothelioma research and patient support.
• Spread Inspiration: Use social media to share your own journey or messages of encouragement using official hashtags.
• Engage in Self-Reflection: Take time to confront personal fears, set new goals, and embrace positivity.

Most Used Hashtags

• #LungLeavinDay
• #SmashYourFears
• #MesotheliomaAwareness
• #CourageAndResilience
• #HeatherVonStJames

Why is Lung Leavin’ Day Important?

Lung Leavin’ Day is a testament to the power of resilience, symbolizing the human ability to overcome adversity and embrace courage. For Heather Von St. James, it began as a personal way to face her fears and celebrate her survival, but it has since grown into a movement that inspires others worldwide.

The day highlights the importance of raising awareness about mesothelioma and advocating for better support and research. It also serves as a powerful reminder that fear, while natural, can be confronted and overcome with the right mindset and community support.