I fell and broke a rib in early August. CT scans picked up masses in both the left and right lobes of my lung. That is how I was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

I couldn't believe the news, since I was a completely healthy person; I was in good shape. It felt like my whole world came crashing down in a matter of weeks. I was so fearful and taken by surprise.

Since I've just been diagnosed, I’m yet to receive treatment. However, based on my own research and my doctor’s recommendation, I decided on the following treatment plan:

• Wedge Resection (removal of a small tumor)
• Lobectomy (removal of entire lobe)
• Lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes)
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy

My surgery is scheduled for the end of September. It will involve removing the left lobe and a small tumor on my right lobe. Next, I will receive eight rounds of chemotherapy with Pembrolizumab over six months, and 15 sessions of radiation therapy over one month. Of course, these will depend on pending post-op scans. As for finances, my treatment will be subsidized, and I will be taking a loan.

I have to admit that after deciding on a treatment plan, I am still fearful and worried. I am not sure what kind of effect treatment will have on my body. I already feel sick from the cancer. I don’t know what to do now.

My future plans involve focusing on treatment for the cancer for now.

After my cancer diagnosis, I went on disability leave.

Since the diagnosis, I have been struggling with changes in my day-to-day life. I’m just trying to accept that this is my new day-to-day.

What scares me most are fears of:

• Not surviving or dying
• Undergoing treatment (e.g., side effects, pain)
• Losing my independence or the ability to care for myself
• Being a burden to my loved ones
• Not being able to continue with normal life or activities

To try and overcome these fears, I’ve been:

• Engaging in mindfulness or relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Educating myself about the cancer and treatment process
• Engaging in spiritual or religious practices
• Focusing on positive thinking or gratitude

To those on their own cancer journey, I’d say research as much as you can before making a decision on your care. Do your research and consider the advice of your doctors and nurses. I hope I can get through this, and if I can, then so can you.