Dear Anna: Pretty name ! I am a 9 year 5 month non small cell lung cancer survivor. I am alive because I was properly diagnosed at Mayo Clinic. Shockingly, I never smoked. During VATS procedure to remove my left lung and a 3cm tumor It was discovered I also had PF and part of my lower lung was also removed!
I had horrible pain for 2 years pre surgery & proper diagnosis. Local doctors dimly were not aware that an athletic never smoker could have lung cancer. Some suggested my choking cough was psychological.
After surgery I have lived with the unfair stigma, that simply just made me so mad, I started running, after I had the honor and pleasure of completing a Mayo Clinic Paced Breathing 3 month Research Study.
1- I do not believe anyone knows for sure how long a person will live. A life insurance company told me "Acvording to statics (at my 5 year survival celebration) You should be dead!" & my policy was cancelled!!!
I set a new goal, after running a 5K race in every state...to run a 10k in every continent! August 2016, I summited Kilimanjaro at 19,361feet altitude without any supplemental oxygen.
After lung cancer surgery I took baby steps and it hurt to breath
I couldn't sleep, walk, talk without taking a breath!
My loving husband tied my shoes when I couldn't bend over, and said, "You belong outdoors, let's go!" I could barely move, I walked heel toe heel toe.
I got on an elliptical machine, I got back on x country skis. I called my sergical team and said,"it hurts to breath!" Spring came I got back on a bike.
Yes it was scary ! But with Mayo Clinic amazing support teams I now believe Lung Cancer and lung disease has been my blessing.
My husband have recently started a foundation to raise Lung Cancer & Lunh Health Awareness.
You have found an amazing network of support. The resources are priceless and support Quality Of Life!
We never know what is around the corner do we?
Anna, I admire and respect your goals and ambitions as you have shared. Get a second opinion, like I did! It saved my life and I have learned how precious living one day at a time with gratefulness and kindness truly is.
You bet, you can help others! It looks like Your heart is in the giving place ! Go for it! And welcome to Connect, the people are wonderful!
You deserve a big cyber hug! Thanks for sharing.
linda