Meet Dr. Justin Hewlett: Inspired by Strength of the LAM Community
Dr. Justin Hewlett often finds himself in awe of the LAM community, but one patient stands out. A woman living with LAM who refused to let limits define her. She regularly takes part in CrossFit-style group fitness classes. She shows up, stays active, and keeps moving forward. She does so, even though she needs supplemental oxygen during exercise. And she encourages other women with LAM to focus on building strength and improving their own physical ability.
For Dr. Hewlett, this patient represents what makes the LAM community so special.
“The strength and support patients give one another is incredible,” he shared. “They inspire me every day.”
Dr. Hewlett is an Assistant Professor of Medicine in Pulmonary and Critical Care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He has spent the past seven years caring for people with LAM, but his connection to this community began during his pulmonary and critical care fellowship training.
His first introduction to LAM came through his mentor, Dr. Lisa Young. She invited him to learn more about this rare lung disease and encouraged him to attend LAMposium. That experience had a lasting impact.
“At LAMposium, I saw patients, scientists, and clinicians all working together,” Dr. Hewlett said. “Seeing that kind of teamwork made me want to build my career around caring for people with LAM.”
What stood out most was how engaged the patients were. Women living with LAM asked thoughtful questions, shared their stories, and supported one another. Their voices helped guide conversations and reminded everyone why the work matters.
Through The LAM Foundation, Dr. Hewlett has found a strong professional network that supports both learning and collaboration. He values the ability to connect with experienced LAM physicians who help with complex cases and share the latest research.
“The LAM Foundation gives me access to education and expert support that directly benefits my patients,” he explained. “It helps open new opportunities for care.”
Through this role, he works alongside other clinicians to help expand access to LAM care, especially for patients who do not live near a specialized clinic.
Dr. Hewlett also serves on The LAM Foundation’s Clinical Advisory Board (CAB).
“Serving on the CAB has been very rewarding,” he shared. “It allows us to extend guidance and support to patients in areas where LAM clinics are not yet available.”
For Dr. Hewlett, the LAM community continues to be his greatest source of motivation. Patients are not only managing a rare lung disease—they are supporting each other, staying active, and living full lives.
Stories like the patient who shows up to CrossFit, oxygen tank and all, are a reminder of the power of this community. They show that strength comes in many forms and that patients often lead the way.
The LAM Foundation is grateful for clinicians like Dr. Justin Hewlett, whose work is inspired by the courage, determination, and connection found throughout the LAM community.
Ready to help us support compassionate care? Donate today.