Anyone out there living with stage 4 lung cancer?

Christine,

I'm a doctor, but not the right type, so I don't know what is normal in Lung Oncology. I know it's not unusual for lung cancer to metastasize to the esophagus. I can imagine the reverse could also be true.

Sorry to hear about your developments. Since you're asking for free advice, ignore the timetable. I agree with Olivia Newton-John that living like you have an expiration date is no way to live. Try to forget those numbers as soon as you hear them and make every day count. Your mental health will be a lot better. I've told my Oncologist I don't want to hear a likely life expiration, and he no longer gives me an estimate.

I keep telling my other doctors that my metastatic lung cancer has not changed my plan to live forever -- or die trying. My kidney specialist lights up every time I say that.

Lastly, you, we, are not broken. We are wounded warriors. Old warriors in most cases, but warriors nonetheless. I wish you all the best.

You are so kind and strong, thank you for taking the time to reply. My biggest thing is our 13 year old boy. I’m broken as know it’s goi g to break his heart and we are not even sure what to say. For the first time I’m lost for words. I’m sure as time goes on I will feel stronger mentally but for now I just feel empty and lost 💔

Hi @christine05, it sounds like you may have metastatic esophageal cancer rather than primary lung cancer. Do I have that right?

If yes, you might appreciate following the Esophageal Cancer support group here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/esophageal-cancer/

I think you will be encouraged by the number of members we have who are living well with stage 4 (metastatic) esophageal cancer.