Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki Shares Final Message on Lung Cancer Awareness

Three months after her passing, former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki has left a lasting impact with a final message focused on lung cancer awareness. Wojcicki, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in late 2022, spent her final months advocating for greater research and funding into the disease.

Despite having no symptoms and being an avid runner, Wojcicki was shocked by her diagnosis, especially since she had never smoked. Her experience led her to resign as CEO of YouTube, although she continued to serve on the boards of several companies, including Salesforce, Planet Labs, and Waymo. Her primary focus, however, shifted to her health, family, and cancer research.

Wojcicki’s letter, published by YouTube during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, highlights the critical need for more research and funding. She noted that lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer death in women and the second most common type of cancer in women, yet it remains significantly underfunded compared to other types of cancer. For instance, lung cancer receives $4,438 per death in NIH research funding, whereas breast cancer receives $19,869 per death.

Throughout her battle with cancer, Wojcicki and her husband donated millions of dollars to support early detection research, new immunotherapy options, and fundamental research into the mechanisms of cancer. Her message emphasizes the importance of enjoying the present and fighting for better understanding and cures for the disease.

Wojcicki’s sisters have also reflected on her determination and advocacy during her final months, highlighting her unwavering commitment to raising awareness and driving change in lung cancer research.