Hi, I'm Lesley. One morning, as I was preparing to fly to Turkey, I found my right arm numb but painful. Later that same day, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 lung cancer.
I had a hacking cough for a few months.
My GP gave me ventolin.
One morning I got up, planning to get ready for a flight to Turkey. Instead, I found my right arm numb but painful.
I was diagnosed later that same day.
I felt frightened, nervous and overwhelmed. Beyond that, I felt furious, numb, disappointed and powerless.
I didn’t make changes to my lifestyle and habits.
At first, the recommended treatment plan included segmentectomy (removal of partial lobe) chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
In the end, I decided to follow through with all except for segmentectomy, based on discussions with my doctor. I felt happy, hopeful, and a little more motivated after deciding on my treatment plans.
Currently, I’ve had to stop treatment, but I never decided to stop it. I’ve just had as much as I can, as I have 12 tumors. They’re also the reason why I couldn't have surgery.
Despite experiencing side effects like
- diarrhea
- hair loss
- peripheral neuropathy
I managed without seeking additional support. Financially, I was fortunate not to face difficulties.
After diagnosis, I didn't make any significant changes to my habits. I haven’t changed how much I talk to and visit my children and parents. However, intimacy with my partner has dropped by quite a bit.
In the next few years, my husband and I are going on holiday. My kids are rather old with families of their own to be joining us. Other than that, I don’t have much plans. I just want to keep waking up in the mornings for as long as I can!
I have a terminal diagnosis. I have to keep going for as long as I can. I have no fear anymore. I think that I just ignore the fact that I have cancer and get on with living my life.
After everything that’s happened, I just feel neutral now.
To those on their own cancer journey, I say, "Please do not feel sorry for yourself. The "why me" soon goes. Every one of your family and friends are hurting, upset and worried about you. Think positive through your journey (I can do this!! F#CK cancer)”
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