In late 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer after a routine checkup. Thankfully, I am now cancer-free and look forward to spending more time with my wife and two kids.
About 7 months ago, I went for my regular checkup and my doctor noticed that my cough didn't go away even after taking a lot of medication. He wanted me to get a chest X-ray and a few other tests. That's when I found out I had cancer.
At first, I was disappointed and confused with the diagnosis. It made me feel empty, powerless and perplexed. These days, I’m more optimistic.
Knowing that I have cancer, I could no longer exercise as much. I’m only half as active as before.
I underwent segmentectomy and chemotherapy. My doctor also prescribed me pain medication which I’m still taking to cope with the pain. Once I decided on the treatment plan based on my doctor's advice, I was relieved, motivated, and hopeful. My cancer is currently in a state of remission.
While undergoing treatment, I experienced side effects like hair loss and weight fluctuations. I manage them with improved nutrition and prescribed medication. Luckily, I didn't face any financial difficulties covering treatment costs.
While I was receiving treatment, my lifestyle was the same as before. With that being said, my relationships improved in general, I became closer to my parents, texting and calling them more often than before. I also visited them more frequently, cherishing the time spent together. However, I have become less active sexually. And even though I have not been able to travel with my wife and kids, I still see them as frequently as before.
Now that I am better and cancer free for the past few months, I want to travel with my wife and kids. My wife kept me motivated, and she was very helpful the whole time. I’m feeling so much better now than I used to. I just want to stay fit and travel with my kids.
‘What if my cancer cells return?’ That is my biggest fear. I've tried talking to my close ones, finding solace in their support.
Right now, I'm feeling optimistic, hopeful, and inspired.
To everyone who is on this journey, keep your head in the right place. You will overcome this and will not have to worry about appointments and doctors and treatments.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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