Carrie Butler’s Story

This November, in honor of lung cancer awareness month, Carrie Butler bravely shares her journey of survival to inspire others facing similar challenges. For years, Carrie endured a persistent, undiagnosed cough and debilitating wheezing. Despite countless tests, doctor visits, and rounds of antibiotics, the cause remained a mystery. The situation took a turn in January 2013 when a sudden cough produced blood.  

Despite initial appointments yielding no new answers, a follow-up with Carrie’s allergist in March revealed significantly worse pulmonary function tests. Puzzled by the decline, the allergist ordered a chest CT scan. The results of this scan revealed a potential lung tumor. It was at this critical moment that Carrie turned to Riverview Health.

“I quickly made an appointment with Dr. Saltagi at Riverview,” stated Carrie. “I had seen his care and compassion for his patients when I worked with him in the ICU. I knew I wanted him to be involved in my case, whatever that would be.”

Dr. Saltagi, an Indiana Internal Medicine Consultant specializing in pulmonary disease, immediately ordered further testing, including a PET scan and a bronchoscopy. Carrie was formally diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer: mucoepidermoid carcinoma.

“This form of cancer requires surgery that removes the entire lung,” Carrie said. “Dr. Saltagi formulated a plan for where we would go from there and was trying to reach the best surgeon in the state."

Carrie had a successful operation in May 2013. Post-surgery, the pathology confirmed the rare tumor type, meaning the surgery had been curative, and no chemotherapy was needed, providing a moment of profound relief. Less than nine months after her major lung surgery, Carrie was thriving, even training for a half marathon. This incredible success is a testament to Carrie’s strength and the collaborative, compassionate care provided by Dr. Saltagi and the entire Riverview Health team.

Riverview Health offers lung cancer screening with low-dose CT. Healthcare provider’s order required. Lung cancer screening is generally recommended for adults ages 50–77 who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years and have a 20 pack-year smoking history (e.g., one pack a day for 20 years). If you're unsure whether you qualify, ask your provider. To schedule a screening, contact your healthcare provider for an order. Your insurance will be billed. 

Contact your provider for a referral today. 

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