What the F*ck is ALK+?

That’s right — most people have never heard of ALK+ lung cancer. But for patients and families living with this rare diagnosis, awareness can mean everything.

ALK+ is caused by a mutation in the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene that fuels the growth of cancer cells. It accounts for only about 5% of all non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases but impacts an estimated 70,000 people worldwide each year — many of them younger adults who never smoked and had no known risk factors.

While new targeted therapies bring hope, the daily challenges for patients and families remain overwhelming.

Why Lisa’s Rainbow Exists

Lisa’s Rainbow was founded by Chicagoland resident Lisa Roesner, who was diagnosed with ALK+ in 2021, along with her brother Robbie Vasquez. Together, they’ve created the only patient-founded, family-led organization of its kind dedicated to ALK+ cancer.

The mission is simple: raise awareness, fund research, and support families — beginning in the Chicago region and extending to anyone touched by this disease. We believe no one should feel alone in the fight against ALK+.

How You Can Get Involved

Together, we can build a community of strength, hope, and action for those impacted by ALK+.  Here’s how you can help:

• Volunteer: Join our events or lend your skills. Sign up here.

• Partner: We’d love to partner with brands that share our passion. Let’s chat.