Janice S., MI

I was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer in August of this year. The tumor was around 2 centimeters. I consulted with a team of doctors at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI. The Surgeon explained he could not do lung surgery due to my COPD lung disease. He said I would not have a good quality of life if he removed the lung. The oncologist explained that I might be a candidate for SBVT radiation treatment. I then talked with the radiologist and he recommended I receive 4 targeted radiation treatments in September. When I returned on October 21, he told me the tumor had shrunk and to return in January of 2014. I will see the oncologist in November for a follow up also. This experience has been kind of surreal. I have not been sick. The treatments were easy with no side effects. Knowing that I have this cancer inside of me bothers me but I have faith and trust that the doctors will do the right thing by me. I have really concentrated on exercise and making future plans. I am not going to give into the disease. I have been very active in Relay for Life for the past 15 years and I have witnessed the power of positive thinking and prayer. I do not know what the future holds for me but I am ready for it.