During the recent Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, Corrine Graczewski, a 72-year-old cancer survivor from Ormond Beach, was recognized in a unique way. Her name appeared on NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones’ car as part of an initiative to honor individuals who have faced cancer.
Graczewski was chosen as one of 82 Cancer Heroes for the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation and NASCAR Foundation’s Honor a Cancer Hero Presented by AdventHealth program. This recognition came through a partnership between AdventHealth and Legacy Motor Club.
“I couldn’t believe it,” said Graczewski. “My name on a race car — and Erik Jones’ car, no less! We’ve followed NASCAR for years. My son even raced Joey Logano when they were kids in Connecticut. This just means the world to me and my family.”
Her experience with cancer began in 2020 when she was diagnosed with three different types of cancer after what initially seemed like appendicitis. She underwent surgery that included removal of her left kidney and remained cancer-free for nearly five years.
Earlier this year, doctors at AdventHealth Daytona Beach found a new tumor near her only remaining kidney—a recurrence of her kidney cancer—requiring precise treatment. Graczewski became the first patient in Volusia and Flagler counties to receive Ethos adaptive radiation therapy at AdventHealth Daytona Beach, which adjusts in real time to changes in a patient’s anatomy during treatment.
“This machine was ideal for me,” Graczewski said. “It pinpoints exactly where the doctor wants the treatment to go — it doesn’t affect the rest of your body. I got through all five treatments with no pain, no sickness, and only a little bit of tiredness.”
“It was kind of surreal,” she added. “They played music during treatment, and before I knew it — seven songs later — I was done. No clunking, no pain. It was peaceful.”
Radiation oncologist Dr. Shiv Desai explained how adaptive radiotherapy works: “Adaptive radiotherapy is like customizing a suit — not once, but every day,” said Desai. “For patients like Corrine, that level of accuracy can mean the difference between effective treatment and long-term side effects.” He also noted: “She only has one kidney,” he added. “So even the smallest amount of damage to healthy tissue could have serious consequences.”
Graczewski will continue her care with immunotherapy under Dr. Eric Harris at AdventHealth Daytona Beach.
“Given the tumor’s location near her only kidney, this was a high-stakes decision,” said Harris. “Ethos is the best option available. It allowed our team to treat the cancer while protecting her kidney and overall health.”
Reflecting on her experience at the race, Graczewski said: “Being part of the Coke Zero Sugar 400 is more than an honor. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone,” she said. “There’s so much life after cancer. And now, my name has literally been part of the race.” She added: “This technology and this team gave me my life back,” she added. “We’ve got a cruise coming up, and I plan to enjoy every second.”
Dr. David Sinclair, CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach, commented on advancements in local care: “Ethos represents a major step forward in cancer care,” said Sinclair. “We’re proud to offer this world-class treatment right here in our community — and even more proud to see patients like Corrine thrive. Her name on the AdventHealth car symbolizes everything we stand for: hope, innovation, and the human spirit. She’s an inspiration to our team and our entire community.”
AdventHealth Orlando serves as one of Florida’s major hospitals since its founding in 1908; its current president is Terry Shaw (https://www.adventhealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-orlando). The hospital includes pediatric services and functions as a training institution.
