I am a 3 year lung cancer survivor and happy to report my life is very much back to normal. I was diagnosed with stage 2 non-small cell lung cancer in June 2010 and had the upper lobe of my right lung removed in July 2010. I was fortunate to have an excellent surgeon and a wonderful support system. As a precaution I underwent 3 months of chemotherapy, not pleasant but you do what you have to do.
When the doctor confirmed it was lung cancer the first thought I had was that I was going to die. I had never heard of anyone living with this disease. As quickly as that thought came to me it left just as quickly. I decided that I was going to fight this and win. When I met my surgeon, I had such confidence in him that I felt I was already cured. Lung cancer and the treatments definitely take a toll on your life, your family, and your finances. But this is all temporary. Three years later I can honestly say I have never felt better. There are a few side effects from the surgery and chemotherapy but nothing that has stopped me from living my life. Stairs and hills do leave me short of breath but at 67 I'm happy that I'm able to do them.
I beat lung cancer because I had the belief that I could, the support of my children and God. I want lung cancer patients to know that they can survive. I want them to know that whether they were smokers or not, if you have lungs you can get lung cancer. There are advances being made in improving lung health so stay strong and believe that you can get through this.
