R.I.P.: WYFF Greenville, NC’s Keisha Kirkland

Keisha Kirkland, former WYFF News 4 weathercaster, lost her battle with lung cancer Tuesday.

She was 41.

Keisha, a healthy non-smoker, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008, not long after she joined the News 4 family.

Because of a family history of heart disease, Keisha went to the doctor to have some tests run.  Her heart was fine, but doctors found an abnormal area in her lung.  The cancer was diagnosed as stage 3, and treatment included surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

When she was diagnosed, Keisha said, "You know, instead of saying, 'Why me?' I should say, 'Why not me?' and find out what I can do with it that's positive for everybody else."

Even while undergoing treatment, Keisha continued to forecast weather for WYFF through 2013, and she spoke to a variety of churches and support groups on the importance of health, prevention and healing through faith.

To watch the video of Keisha's goodbye when she left News 4 in May 2013, click here,

Throughout her five-year battle with cancer, Keisha frequently said her hope was that someone would hear her story and be inspired or encouraged through personal challenges.

Keisha, a native of Danville, Ky., attended the University of Louisville. During her senior year of chiropractic school at Life University, Keisha learned she had pituitary macro adenoma. After several brain surgeries, temporary paralysis, and a painstaking recovery, Keisha beat the diagnosis. She earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Life University, graduating with honors in 2000.

Keisha's husband is former Clemson star and NFL All-Pro linebacker Levon Kirkland. When Keisha was diagnosed, their daughter, Kennedy, was 5.

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