I was diagnosed with stage 4 adenocarcinoma in 2018 after seeking treatment for what I thought was sleep apnea. I went in for a CPAP consultation, which led to a CT scan that revealed a spot on my right lung. An MRI confirmed it was a tumor, and 11 lymph nodes were compromised. Before I could start any treatments, I was placed on a blood thinner but suffered a stroke.
A DNA test later revealed that I had a mutation on my EGFR, making me eligible for Keytruda. I started treatment and responded well for about nine months. However, I developed colitis as my immune system became compromised. Unknowingly, I went swimming in a bay off the ocean, where I contracted Vibrio—a bacteria related to cholera—which further weakened my health.
I was then placed on an oral chemotherapy drug while doctors conducted tests to determine the cause of my severe colitis. After analyzing my bloodwork, they decided to take me off all treatments.
Since 2019, I have undergone several scans. My oncologist noticed the original tumor appeared "hot" and recommended one week of radiation. Another tumor also looked suspicious, so we decided to treat both with radiation. Following the treatment, my radiation oncologist confirmed everything looked clear. However, my primary oncologist has scheduled one more scan to be certain.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such positive results. I truly believe my access to excellent health care and insurance made all the difference.
