Living with lung cancer - Introduce yourself & come say hi

NCCN is the best site. It took me quite awhile to understand it. Sign in as a practitioner and you will see what doctors see. There is also a patient site with the best trusted information.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network

I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in October. I never smoked but found out mine is caused by a gene mutation (EFGR). I had to have a tumor removed from the brain and then 3 targeted radiation treatments. . I am now taking Tagrisso. I’m trying to stay positive. Anyone else with a similar diagnosis?

I am in the diagnostic stage of mesothelioma, with entire left lung needing surgery. I have a video conference scheduled with Mayo in a week, following fluid drain and ct-pet scan last Thursday. A biopsy of pleural cavity is expected next, but must be just necessary confirmation. From my research I am expecting removal of that lung due to finding of mesothelioma. I have been an avid follower if this wonderful site,but haven’t seen anything on this type of cancer. Is there hope for a resolution anyone can share?

My lung cancer was a surprise.I had no symptoms but had a chest X-ray as I was going to have a watchman implanted in my heart for AFIB. It showed a mass of 3.4 c so thank god I decided to have the watchman.I am 80 years old and also have diabetes. They did a biopsy and yes it is cancer, started chemo on the 8 of February and the 15. I then have a week off and start over twice more. They will then do pet scan and hopefully surgery. Super tired and yeast infection under breasts. Very painful

Hi Tom! I had part of my lung removed in September. I’ll tell you it’s not a piece of cake. Not too many people get to have surgery. Don’t know who your surgeon is. I had Dr. Blackmon and her team. Hat a great surgeon. I’ve had 2 pet scans since surgery. My lung are a is clear. I do have one very small spot by my breast bone. But they are going to watch it. So he hospital stay isn’t a piece of cake. Everyday I get stronger and the key is . You go in with a positive attitude makes all the difference in the world. Good luck. Need any questions just reach out.

I would call the Mayo. I did and told them I wanted a second opinion. I had surgery in Sept. had part of my lung removed. I had a really good outcome. I’m not going to lie the surgery hurt like hell. The recovery wasn’t bad. After my hospital stay I came home. I live alone and am 70 years old. The drain was the biggest part I didn’t like. Have a positive attitude. You would be surprised how much better you feel.

Thanks Patty, especially appreciate your frank comment on the gravity of the surgery. I have been given a boatload of info just now, a mesothelioma info packet arriving soon, a company I assume is funded through legal settlements, she said there is a large fund and I have a strong case😙 . This is described as a very rare form of cancer, at present two options being surgery or immunotherapy. Of course I defer to the Mayo determination. I was told not many have surgery due to the efficacy of immunotherapy. Yes! to the positive mindset!

Good morning! Update: Yesterday we met with the Oncologist. To reiterate, I have a NSCLC Adenocarcinoma that has metastesized to a lymph node. I Liked him very much...super nice. Unfortunately, I wasn't as excited with what he had to say 🙁 According to the PET scan, my node is in a very difficult spot to get at surgically. I am 77 and have type 2 diabetes. The bio marker has not come back yet, but since we don't have any children I don't suspect it's critical. My Pulmonologist had suggested IIIA but because the node location, the Onco is suggesting IIIB. At this point, I'm waiting to hear from the surgeon as he will have the final answer as to whether it can all be removed or not. The onco also suggested if the surgeon can get to it he might recommend a short course of radiation first to shrink it..then follow up with chemo/radiation. Otherwise it will be chemo/radiation and followed by immunotherapy. This is all so new and very overwhelming...and it has all happened so very fast. I never had symptoms or pain...only hoarseness in my voice which we thought might be from acid reflux. Trying to stay positive but it sure is hard. I know there are many who are in much worse condition and I pray for them and their families. Thanks for any pearls of wisdom.
Sandy aka Pixiedust

Hello all: visit with surgeon update! I met with the thoracic surgeon today and he further explained about the paratracheal lymph node. He is meeting on Friday with a team of other doctors as well as the oncologist and will further discuss my situation. Likely I will hear from the Onco either Friday or Monday to come up with a neoadjuvant treatment with platinum-based doublet (PT-DC) and immunotherapy before surgery. A PET scan would follow...if I'm not lit up, surgery would be an option after a rest period. If not a candidate for surgery, then he recommends concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by immunotherapy for at least 1 year. I found this surgeon to be very nice, as well as the Onco and the Pulmonologist - a great team. I am grateful that this has all happened so quickly and I can thank my Pulmonologist who really got the ball rolling.
Sandy aka Pixiedust

I’m glad that the appointments went well, and that you have found a team that you can trust! It’s so important.
Lisa