We all hear and read about the negative side of lung cancer so lets hear the positive side of it. Tell us (that includes caregivers, anyone) how you deal with it, with life, family and friends etc.

For me my journey with lung cancer has been very positive and a learning experience about people and life. Everything has fallen into place as I go along. Everyone has been so supportive and positive and not one single person ever said why bother or gave me a hard time because I have lung cancer. I still have a life, still enjoy things, still can laugh and be myself. Focus on living and what I can do. Have my moments but they are few and far in between, it’s wasted energy, counter-productive and serves no purpose. I don’t shut anyone else because I have lung cancer or for that matter any of my health issues. They do not shut me out, there the ones I love and who love me that mean so much to me and do so much for me. Never got angry, felt sorry for myself, took it out on anyone or said why me God. Not going to change a single thing. It’s what life is all about-- adversity and how one looks at it and what one is going to do about it. I chose to control cancer (and my other health issues) and not let cancer control me. My motto is always could be worse, lock and load and lets kick some *ss. When it’s all said and done I can say God blessed me with a good life. I have the right people in my life that made all the differences and makes life worth living every step of the way. SO MANY THANKS TO THE PEOPLE THAT MAKE IT ALL HAPPEN-- My wife, my daughter, my best friend, family/friends, LCSC Members, my many doctors/nurses, Boston Area Lung Cancer Walk/Fun Run Committee, LUNGevity and so many many more who have come into my life along my journey. Yep God does like me and I’m one lucky b*stard.

Take care everyone and have a great weekend!
Rich

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

Friends, friends, friends, FRIENDS and MORE NEW AND WONDERFUL FRIENDS!!! Sincere, honest, kind, loving, caring, devoted, supportive, NEW FRIENDS I have made on this journey.

These Wonderful Friends, have seen me at my worst, cried with me when I was sad, laughed with me when I laughed, held me when I was scared, comforted me when I was alone and overwhelmed with fear and sadness.

The positive side of being a lung cancer survivor is having all these wonderful lung cancer survivor/caregiver FRIENDS in my LIFE! THANK GOD FOR FRIENDS!!!

And without skipping a beat I couldn't have done this journey without my AWESOME FAMILY!! Thank you Lord for all that you have given me.

I'm a lucky girl!


I'll have to add the rest later, I'm leaving and in a hurry right now.

_________________
Warm and Gentle Hugs,
Connie B
Date Dx.d, 7/21/1995, Age 43, Adenocarcinoma, Stage IIIB, had 3.4cm tumor and three cancerous lymph nodes.
7/25/1995 had Left Lung Removed along with several lymph nodes.
9/9/95 Started Chemo (VP-16/Cisplatin), & Radiation (36 treatments). Cancer Free.
8/11/2003 CT Scan found 4mm Nodule Right Upper Lung. Did PET scan & Nodule Lite up. Also found a Tumor in my Left Atrium (Heart)
8/21/03 Open Heart Sugery for Myxoma Tumor in Left Atrium. During heart surgery (3) surgeons checked 4mm nodule & agreed it did not appear to be cancerous.
11/2004-CT & PET scan, nodule still there 6mm will watch.
4/2005-CT, Nodule still there and has grown to 8mm will do another CT in 9/2005. Waiting & watching nodule.
9/2005 CT Nodule has shrunk to 5mm. Doctor's feel nodule could be scar tissue.
2/2006 Having Shortness of Breath problems.
4/2006 CT, nodule 5mm No Change.
11/2006 CT scan no change in Nodule.
4/26/07 Results of CT scan shows I have another Noudule. Now have two nodules, one is 6-7mm & the new one is about 3mm.
9/2007 CT shows 3 nodules all mm in size. First 2 have no change in them. New one is very small. Repeat CT in 6 months.
12/11/07 Still NED
5/7/08 CT (right lung) (nodules watch) two new nodules I now have 5 nodules. Will watch via CT scans.
10/08 CT Scan showed 1 nodule 6mm has grown to 1.2cm.
5/22/09 CT Scan (awaiting results)
7/4/09 PET Scan (3 nodules in left lung are now 1.4c.m in sizes.
8/13/09 Did Bronhcoscopy
8/18/09 NOT Cancer, no cancer found.
Next PET Scan Oct 2009.

READ MY STORY @ http://www.lungevity.org/l_community/vi ... hp?t=13224

Lost my Father age 56(1970), Mother age 66 (1987), and Sister age 43 (1988) all to Lung Cancer
AVATAR is in Iowa @ the Presidential Cancer Forum

Rich, thanks so much for starting this thread. I've been thinking along similar lines for a while, something to go along with the orchid item I posted a few days ago marking my first year after diagnosis.

In one of my first posts to the community last September, I mentioned a friend who became a quadriplegic following a near-fatal accident in a remote section of Kauai, and how successful and happy he's become in the years following that tragic event.

He came by a couple of evenings ago to drop off a printing job for me to trim on my large cutter, and after he demonstrated the automatic ramp and other features of his new van we talked for over an hour in my driveway. I told him about the sudden shift in perspective I had in my hospital room last year, and he went into detail about his own remarkable experience more than 10 years ago. He was also eager to share his recent good fortune, some personal and business opportunities that have fallen into place, and we talked about other people we've known or read about whose lives changed for the better after an event that most would consider the worst thing imaginable.

Such stories are not just bravado, and they are far more than simply summoning up the courage to make the best out of a horrible situation. They represent a new direction, almost the beginning of a new life. My friend and I used different terms to explain such events -- he with distinctly religious overtones as a born-again Christian, me with more of a non-religious universal frame of reference -- but I see them as the same in essence.

Before I'm misunderstood (if I haven't been already), I hasten to add that the positive changes I'm talking about here are in the person with the disability or disease, not their caregivers or other family members. Stories might be found there too, but that's a different ballgame.

I'd love to go on, but 1500 envelopes are waiting in my garage workshop, expecting to be printed by noon. Aloha to all,

Ned

_________________
Ned is just my nickname, though it would be nice to merge it with the other meaning eventually...

Aloha means "Hello, goodbye, love, compassion, welcome, good wishes." It means belonging to others with a common humanity. It's defined better as a feeling in the heart than by words.

Dx NSCLC adenocarcinoma IIIb Sep 2006, now stage IV. Taxol+Carboplatin+Avastin 4 mo., Avastin 8 mo., Tarceva 16 mo., Alimta 12 mo. (sometimes combined with Cisplatin or Carboplatin), Navelbine since Feb 2010, 10 sessions of WBR in March 2011. See My Cancer Journey: viewtopic.php?p=351369#p351369 — UPDATED 03/05/2011.

Above left: Our golden retriever Rosie, who joined the family on 3/5/08 at the playful age of 2.

Below: Hannah, our golden companion 1994-2007.

Well, I have not had an paradigm shift in my consciousness, maybe subtle changes, my wife and I have become much closer. Also, I have learned a little more compassion.

Don M

_________________
10-31-03 CT. My profile was getting too long so I moved it to my story.

http://www.lungevity.org/l_community/vi ... hp?t=37417

Hey Rich...

Great thread you started buddy...would be great to hear the positive's of having LC...

To me having had LC.. changed my life in a heart beat...but as time went on and I realized that I have been blessed that I am still here with my wonderful family and friends and my cyber friend's..like here like right here on this board...I have managed to accept it...but as I said before on a couple of my posts...I refuse to let LC run my life...(althou I get petrified at scan time) and I refuse to live a "new normal'...NO!!!!...I am living a normal life...but many of my prespective's have changed...I don't sweat the small stuff anymore.

My family and friends treat me the way they have treated me before LC and that is how I want it to be...Sure I have my bouts of fear of the unknown...
but after a few prayer's...it's gone...I am a Christian. woman..I have a lot of faith and that is what has brought me this far...God is so good...

Rich...after reading your profile...you are such an inspiration...You have such a great attitude after all you have been thru....I wish you the very best for you to continue to lead an eventful life and to continue your good spirits...

I also was BAC and just recently had a scare with a
'possible lymph node enlargement" and after the PET Scan ..turned out to be nothing....I pray the same for you...Please let us know...

Ok kids...so that's it...that's how I feel right now...tomorrow may be another story and I will deal with it...prayers to all and will alway's pray for the cure...hugs...Pam/Nonni

_________________
[size=9] dx 8/04 with LC...surgery on Sept 14,2004...removed right upper lobe...stage 1a nsclc..BAC with no other involvments and no furthur treatments...thank God
2/05 developed a bad cough...doc recommeds Pet
2/05 Pet/Scan clear..yay!
3/05 Chest exray ..clear
7/05 Chest exray ....clear..yearly ct/scan on 11/05
11/05...CAT done today....waiting and praying....
11/05 results from CT/Scan...doc say's
ABSOLUTELY OK...thank you Jesus....
11/17/05...oncoligist appointment....NED everything Ok ..going back in one year instead of 6 months..and then another Ct/scan
11/21/05...surgeon appointment...OK..se me in 4 months with a chest exray..
2/06 pins and needles back again...GP orders Pet/Ct scan...very nervous....
2/06 Pet/Ct negative...seeing surgeon in Mar...cancelled chest exray because of clean Pet..yahh!!
3/06 came down with the flu
3/06 doc orders chest exray...shows pneumonia...
7/06 chest exray..NED but still suggests CT/Scan soon
9/06 CT/Scan..results no change..I'll take it

Dec 06...back pain..doc orders exrays and MRI...both were normal..so why does my back hurt..I ain't asking?
2/07 chest exray...NED
8/07 chest exray..NED
8/07..having rib pain..doc orders 2 MRI's and Ct/scan..praying hard
9/07 Ct/scan shows 'possible lymph node enlargement...doc orders another Pet..
9/07..Pet shows ' unremarkable ..no malignancy...Praise God!!!
2/08 6 month chest exray...Normal

Rich,

There is a positive side to lung
cancer.

But there is also a positive side
to all kind of cancer.

''Thank you Rich''
your post will help me.

I will just say I have cancer since
1975 and now have two cancers...since
2004.
So I know both sides for a long time
and even with the loss of Mike I still
say there is a very positive side with
lc, we have to look for it but it is
there.
Jackie

_________________
Husband *Mike*
dx'd nsclc Stage IIIA, inoperable, May 21st 2002
On October 13th 2003, he died at home as he
wanted, very peacefully during his sleep.
I miss you so much Mike.
Jackie

The positive side is that now I appreciate the little things. I have grown much closer to people and have reconnected with others that I lost contact with or that I wasn't close to before cancer.
I have changed in many ways- I'm kinder, I do more for people, I donate more money than I ever did before and I am just a better person.

I hope it's ok that I posted in the survivors forum--

_________________
Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.
John Lennon

"Never, never, never give up." Winston Churchill

"I rang for ice, but this is ridiculous." -Madeline Talmadge-Astor, as she was being helped off the Titanic

"Losing love is like a window in your heart, everybody sees you're blown apart, everybody sees the wind blow". Paul Simon

Husband John has NSCLC-Vena Cava Syndrome Stage 3B, Dx 6/02
Carbo/Taxol,Radiation
Taxotere
Gemzar
Iressa started 3/03
10/03 Stable CT scan
1/04 CT Still stable.
3/04 PET Scan, Still stable.
7/04 Still stable
1/05 Still stable
1/30/05 Iressa discontinued Started Tarceva, still stable 7/05
1/06 Slight increase in tumor, stopping Tarceva.
1/27/06 Started Alimta
5/5/06 Avastin added to Alimta
6/14/06 Stable, continue w/ Avastin
1/29/07 Shrinkage! Continue w/ Avasin.
7/07- Something new on the CT scan, doing a bronc 7/25/07 to see what it is. 8/21/07 begins brachytherapy. Next treatment postponed until 9/6/7 due to an infection which is making him too ill for the procedure. 9/13/07 Diagnosed with Aspergillus. Has brachytherapy 9/20/07. Developed a pericardial effusion, 10/30/07 has a pericardial window to drain the fluid. Procedure goes well but he passes away 10/31/07 due to a pulmonary hemorrhage.
Pic is me and daughter Jillian aka The Jillinator.
Visit Walk the Walk:
www.michiganlungcancerwalk.org

Thanks Guys! I always enjoy reading the positive side of something. Very uplifting. I hope we here from more (everyone involved-- patient, caregiver, family member, fried) members- COME ON GUYS!

Connie – Thanks for sharing your thoughts and what got you this far. You are an inspiration to anyone traveling this road.
Ned – When I read stories like that (as well yours) gentlemen I’m always amazed at the human spirit, how much one can over come and say to myself I don’t have it so bad after all. Thanks, I enjoyed reading that.
Don – Subtle changes make a difference too and your attitude is amazing, thanks for sharing.
Nonni – I love your attitude, spunk and out look on life. It is very inspirational. Thanks for the kind words. I go for a Pet Scan on 9/14/07 and not sure when for the biopsy yet. Will post an update (so far I have it updated in my profile so I won't forget LOLOL) when I get the game plan, hopefully soon.
Jackie – I’m very sorry you are dealing with two cancers. Please know you are in my prayer and I always enjoy reading your posts. Hard enough with one but two. I admire your courage and strength. Thanks for sharing.
Rochelle – Of course you can post here, I want to here from everyone. Thanks for sharing your thoughts from a caregiver’s perspective. It gives us all hope from the other side of the coin!

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

The recurrence of my lung cancer change me a lot. I discover what a wonderfull person was my 2nd. husband Bob. Always on my side & with my kids, planning trips for us, inviteing my friends from Argentina to came & visit. I need to work a little bit more on the depression side, but yes I start enjoing life much more.. and the beauty of discover all of you.... always my support.
But really I could be much better with out it, but I thank God that I am here after 5 years & will fight to stay for long long time if I can.
love bucky

_________________
back pain at 49= Stage IB 2003 adrenocarcinoma only surgery
Sept 06 recurrence surgen said IIIA same cancer, same place & somelymph nodes
36 radiation
3 weeks v16/cisplastin
3x Taxotere
feb 07 partial remission
march/april radiation neumonitis
Feeling great now, sometimes a little down
5/07 4 5mm brain mets go to Dke on Friday for the gamaknife if posible
gamma not posible since they are 4 WBR
7/7 3 of the mets are gone the other went from 6mm to 4. They thin it will be gon soon
lungs still inactive. Hapy,hapy
8/10 Duke WBR still working
CAT everything is fine 2 small nodes, check in 3 month. docs said not to woried
10/17 4mm noude in my good lung, Dc.said is not important
12/4 noude went to 6 mm. Dc said no problem, CAT in the brain don't se anything YEs!!!!
new picture my grand baby son inlow & 4 kids, we are missing Cristian the $ year old tantrun day
1/26/08 clean brains, lungs stable
yes 3more month of parole
2/26 start clinical trial for a vaccine (hope it work)AVX701-001
3/6 visit onc. here in gso. some gorng in the pleura, if vaccin don't work. New treatment
Clinical trial did not work
5/31 cancer spreaad a litlle to the liever & 1 rib
6/2will start tarceva 50 mg 4 2 weeks
then to a 100 . pray to work

Thanks for sharing you experiences Bucky-- I'm glad you are working on things but through it all there is still a positive side for you. Take care and have a great weekend.

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

As a caregiver--the good side for me is the people here I've learned so much about how this evil disease touches so many regardelss of class, race, gender, etc. It's also been interesting to see the effect on my father. The year before my mom's disgnosis he suffered a mild stroke, heart attack and had triple bypass surgery. He seemed very depressed afterwards because he had to stop working (at 80!) and just didn't see much point in anything. After mom's dx he seems to have a purpose again. It's not that her disease has cheered him up, but he has a focus now and seems to have come out of his depression.

I think mom would pratty much say the diesease sucks, I've not heard her make any comments about positives, but I will ask her.

Susan

_________________
76 year-old mom diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer January 5, 2007.

15 radiation treatments to the spine and four rounds of chemo, Jan-May, 2007.

Stable disease May, 2007-May, 2008.

Bone scan May, 2008 shows new mets in the spine, pelvis and ribs.

July, 2008--finished radiation and has a Quadramet treatment.

October, 2008--Scans show mild progression. Began chemo (carbo/taxol/avistin). Will have four rounds of threatment (every 21 days) and scan in January.

01/05/2009--TWO YEAR SURVIVOR!

4/2009--STABLE! No treatment. Next scan in July

7/2009--Scan shows pleural effusion. Fluid drained and malignant. Cancer has spread to other lung and a 13 mm lesion is seen on the liver. Mom to begin Alimta on 8/3

11/2009--Alimta was hard on mom and scans showed progression.

12/2009--began Tarceva, noticed almost immediate improvement.

2/25/2010--Celebrated Mom's 80th birthday!

5/15/2010--Mom watched her oldest granddaughter graduate from college and then paritied well into the night! She's still feeling great.

6/15/2010--Mom watched her youngest granddaughter graduate from high school. Still feeling great!

8/2010-10/2010--Mom begins feeling tired and stays in bed more and more. Scans reveal that the cancer is moving rapidly throughout her body.

10/13/2010--Mom wins her battle once and for all, and passes to a place where the cancer can no longer touch her.

For a more detailed timeline see:

http://www.lungevity.org/l_community/viewtopic.php?p=360385#360385

That's great Susan for your Dad, I'm so glad for him. Looking forward to hearing moms thoughts. Thanks for sharing, take care and enjoy your weekend.

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

My dad hasn't gotten to the positive side yet, but mom always says:

1. Her early retirement from work

2. Easier parking with her handicap placard (we are a family who laughs at ourselves b/c laughter covers the tears at times)

3. The kindness of others. When someone does something for her, in her honor, etc, the feeling is undescribable for all of us actually.

4. Her team of drs, and in particular her oncologist. We love and adore and worship her oncologist and his phyisican assistant.

5. Not worrying about the small stuff.

_________________
[size=84]Mom diagnosed 11/03; age 58; NSCLC IIIA
Carboplatin/Gemzar
3/4/04--lobectomy
5/04--completed radiation
5/05--coiling for brain anyerusm found on routine brain MRI
8/05--triple bypass
10/06--PET, brain MRI, CT clear
8/07--NED
Currently in remission/NED
2/12--Stage IV squamous cell, a new beast
4/9/12--My mom passed away

Dad diagnosed 9/06; age 65 (asymptomatic); adenocarcinoma with BAC features
9/06--Wedge resection of 1.4cm tumor
Lots of little nodules remain and a small thing on brain maybe
11/06--Stable
5/18/10--Dx with Macroglobenemia (indolent lymphoma) & nodule growth
6/10--IT'S BACK! Tarceva time
[/size]

Thanks Andrea for sharing moms side of it and hopefully as time goes on for dad as well. I think having kids brings on a whole new meaning of what life is all about and they say laughter is the best medicine!
Take Care,
Rich--

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

If not for my husband's diagnosis, we probably would never have taken his dream trip. We went on a 12-day Meditteranean(sp?) cruise. We got to visit places he's always dreamed of: Rome, Naples, Athens...

It was such a joy to be able to give him that gift.

_________________
My wonderful husband of 15 years - 46 y.o. - ext. sclc

9/06 - Hoarse voice prompts visit to ENT. Xray reveals 10 cm. mass left lung. Go to MSK - inoperable.
Only pursuing natural remedies.
10/30/06 - mediastinoscopy finds mets to mediastinal and rt. hilar nodes
12/15/06 - cardiac tamponade, fluid drained
12/28/06 - 1st visit to onc at MSK (finally!)chemo to start next wk. carboplatin/etoposide
5/3/07 - last chemo complete
5/29/07 - depart for our once-in-a-lifetime trip, a 12 day Mediterranean cruise
6/20/07 - get scan results. progression in lung and lymph nodes. Hycamtin to begin next week.
8/6/07 - get scan results, progression in lung and lymph nodes again. Begin once weekly taxotere tomorrow.
8/29/07 - my honey gets to have another birthday...that's a cause for celebration!
9/12/07 - hubby has seizures. brought to hospital. huge pleural effusion, multiple brain mets, and dka.
9/13/07 - hospice begins in hospital
9/14/07 - we move to my mom's so I have additional caregivers available as needed
10/2/07 - Joe's earthly journey comes to an end

My life will go on, but my soul will never recover

"Somewhere beyond the sea, he's there watching for me.
If I could fly like birds on high, then straight to his arms I'd go sailing".

nyka69-- I'm glad your husband and you got to go on that great cruise, thanks for sharing. I enjoyed reading that. Prayers for the best.
Rich

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

Rich,

Great thread. The positives for me are that

-I learned how caring and good most people truly are. Just yesterday a mom at my son's soccer game came over to me and said to me "I want to do something for you but don't know what to offer. Please tell your daughter that if she needs anything or help in highschool to come see me" (she happens to be a math teacher at the highschool. So many people who I don't really know go out of their way to help my family. I still find that amazing.

-I learned how many people are truly ill and suffering. I spent my time rushing through life before to even notice. I am much more compassionate today.

-I learned what a truly amazing strong teenager I raised. My oldest daughter has handled this so well.

-I realized how strong I truly am. I enjoy life most days, I parent, I work, I cook, I clean the house, I take the kids to CCD, Soccer and dance on the weekends and I absolutely refuse to cry more than I will laugh.

Lilly

_________________
[size=9] Lillian (43 years old)
Smoked for 27 years (Quit at diagnosis)
mom of 3 (15, 9 and 3)
Officially diagnosed 6/9/06
NSCLC Stage IIIA
Primary tumor right lower lobe and mediastinum lymph node #7 positive. Paclitaxol and Carbo plus 35 radiation treatments to chest then 10/2/06-Muscle Sparring Thoracotomy-removed lower right lobe and mediastinum lymph nodes 11/14/06-Paclitaxol/Carboplatin First of two rounds scheduled to begin,11/18/06-Serious vomiting and stomach pain, admitted to hospital. CT Scan reveals potential issue with Adrenal Gland. 11/28/06 PET Scan Scheduled Adrenal Gland lit up on PET scan, thoracic team fairly certain it is a lung cancer met. Brain MRI shows two lesions in Brain. Dec 14, 2006: GammaKnife Radiostatic Surgery to Brain performed, Agressive Chemo to begin Thursday 12/28 (Cisplatin & Gemcitibine) Administered together first week. Second and third week Gemcitibine alone. Fourth week off chemo then cycle starts again. Brain MRI results: no new lesions, previous two lesions: one completely gone the other a faint blush that is expected to be no more at next scan scheduled for March 9th. Feb. 8, 2007, PET Scan: Results Adrenal gland hotter..Feb. 20, 2007, Memorial Sloan opinion: Disease Stable, they suggest monitoring only
Mar. 9th: Brain MRI: Nothing new, Mar. 16th: CT Scan: Nothing new, Mar. 19th: PET Scan
Mar. 20th: Begin new chemo cycle Abraxane and Rapamycin phase I trial. May 2007: PET Scan shows Adrenal gland SUV lower Cycle 2 Chemo scheduled
May 21st: CT Scan shows new tiny nodule on right Pleura. Some Pleura thickening. Dr. and radiologist are not certain if infection or cancer. Getting tested for infections. May 25th PET Scan: No difference from previous PET scan. Dr.'s unclear if nodule and thickening is disease or not. Will continue treatment 6/5/07. 7/6/07 PET CT scan reveal progression. Adrenal tumor larger and new small tumor in abdomen. Officially off trial.
7/12/07 Start 150MG Tarceva. Day 10 of Tarceva, started rash..It's on my chin, scalp, around nose. Also sores in my mouth. I'm using antibiotic and steroid creams for my face and a oncologic mouth rinse for my sores. Vocal Chord Surgery scheduled for 9/4/07 after I return from Hawaii. 9/6/07 Surgery on Vocal Chord seems to be a success. Back to work today.
9/14/07 CT Scan shows progression: .8cm growth on adrenal gland tumor. Tarceva stopped, 9/25/07 began Alimta. Once every three weeks. 10/16/07 2nd Alimta treatment. 11/9/07 3rd Alimta treatment. Waiting for scans to be scheduled. 11/25/07 Panic Attack during CT Scan resulted in A-Fib of the heart. Brought to ER, then ICU, hospital total of 6 days. Taking heart meds to control heart rate. Scan shows Adrenal gland slightly bigger. Fourth Alimta cancelled. 12/22/07 met with Surgeon. Will remove Adrenal Gland and a lymph node on 1/14/08. Due to complications was in ICU and a respirator for two weeks. Also had Pneumonia and Atrial Febrillation, as well as blood pressure problems. Returned home from the hospital on Feb. 6th.

Dr. claims Adrenal gland tumor completed removed with clear margins.

3/18/08 MRI of the Brain, cervical spine and CT Scan results. No Evidence of Disease. Rescan in three months

Sep. 2009 CT Scan result: new lesion near area of right adrenal gland. Started SRS.
3-5-09 NED!!!


Lost my cousin Sal to Lymphoma on November 24, 2006. Lost my cousin Gloria to Small Cell Cancer on March 19, 2007. Lost my cousin Pippo to lung cancer in Feb. 2009]

Rich,

Hard to go to two places for
the positive side of cancer,
just have so much time at the
moment to write and just posted
under the thread of Katie.

Volunteer with cancer patients
since 1975, when I got cancer
I saw and still see the beautiful
and positive side of cancer after
all those years.

Rich, I make you a promise after
I moved and get installed will
have more time to write and will
do it. Just want to know where
I will have to post it.
You have to keep this thread going,
it is so needed by everybody, even
those that are negative.

Hugs
Jackie

_________________
Husband *Mike*
dx'd nsclc Stage IIIA, inoperable, May 21st 2002
On October 13th 2003, he died at home as he
wanted, very peacefully during his sleep.
I miss you so much Mike.
Jackie

Rich, Connie, Mary Ann.....and everybody else.al all of you are so wonderfull!!!give all of us the more negative ones a breath of life and happines. Thank you very much. Is so nice to wake up in the morning and look at the skies, listen to my grandchild & prepare lunch to my son that is always rushing to go to school. I learn ho to be gratefull of having 4 great kids, 2 grand kids & a wonderfull husband.That I will not gave up.Life is unique, friend are the best & talk to you next week. I am on myay to california.Have a good week, gracias again
love bucky

_________________
back pain at 49= Stage IB 2003 adrenocarcinoma only surgery
Sept 06 recurrence surgen said IIIA same cancer, same place & somelymph nodes
36 radiation
3 weeks v16/cisplastin
3x Taxotere
feb 07 partial remission
march/april radiation neumonitis
Feeling great now, sometimes a little down
5/07 4 5mm brain mets go to Dke on Friday for the gamaknife if posible
gamma not posible since they are 4 WBR
7/7 3 of the mets are gone the other went from 6mm to 4. They thin it will be gon soon
lungs still inactive. Hapy,hapy
8/10 Duke WBR still working
CAT everything is fine 2 small nodes, check in 3 month. docs said not to woried
10/17 4mm noude in my good lung, Dc.said is not important
12/4 noude went to 6 mm. Dc said no problem, CAT in the brain don't se anything YEs!!!!
new picture my grand baby son inlow & 4 kids, we are missing Cristian the $ year old tantrun day
1/26/08 clean brains, lungs stable
yes 3more month of parole
2/26 start clinical trial for a vaccine (hope it work)AVX701-001
3/6 visit onc. here in gso. some gorng in the pleura, if vaccin don't work. New treatment
Clinical trial did not work
5/31 cancer spreaad a litlle to the liever & 1 rib
6/2will start tarceva 50 mg 4 2 weeks
then to a 100 . pray to work

I am not going to lie. When I first saw this thread I thought you all were crazy! How on earth could there be anything good about cancer!!! However, when forced to think how things have changed for the positive, I see that there really has been a positive here...

1. I was able to share my faith with my family. We prayed together, and they were faced with the reality of a God, a God we turn to for support, guidance, and love. I have been the God nut in our family until now, and now we all see that without Him, none of us could have made it.

2. I was avoiding taking my post pardem meds, and thus barking at my kids, and being down-and-out with my daughter's colic and life's general struggles. When dad was diagnosed, I said, what the heck...and my parenting has totally changed. My patience is here, and I can see the big picture.

3. We relish in the small stuff now...sitting around a fire with the kids, roasting marshmallows for each other, and enjoying each other's company.

4. Recognizing the small improvements in dad brightens my day. I have started calling home every day, checking in as well as sharing my day.

Thank you for this post. We have to realize the subtle gifts we are given amongst the seemingly disaster!

Jen

_________________
[size=75]Loving Daughter, with three siblings, praying for a Dad with SCLC, superior vena cava syndrome.

3/16/06 DX Mass and/or adenopathy within the right hilum..consistent with bronchogenic carcinoma. May also be subcarinal adenopathy. Small right pleural effusion.
3/17/06 MRI head with/out contrast. Biopsi-lung, right middle lobe bronchus. Small Cell Carcinoma of the right lung with SVC syndrome
3/21/06 Bone scan. No evidence for skeletal metastases
3/21/06 Etoposide and Carboplatin chemotherapy (3 days)
4/12/06 Chest XRay - Obvious shrinking of tumor
4/12/06 Etoposide and Carboplatin (3 days)
5/2/06 CScan - again, obvious shrinking of tumor
5/5/06 Meet with Radiologist to determine radiology plan
5/9/06 Day one of Radiation
5/10/06 Chemo (?) (3 days)
6/4/06 In the middle of radiation, going EXTREMELY well, aside from sore eating, and tired, tired, tired. Dad is hopeful, sure that he is coughing up tumor every day, and spirited. Thank you God!
6/18/06 Went into local hospital for infusion. Chest X for possible pneumonia.
6/20/-6 Went to local hospital for infustion. DX with pneumonia in both lungs. O2 levels low, and irregular heart beat. He does not feel heart beating 140 and above. Meds for regulation not working. Made it to Mayo 6/25...back in the hands of the amazing!
6/29 Radiation Graduation! Dad is now home, and regaining strength every day. He is tired, tired, tired, but again, getting stronger every day. Will return to Mayo on 7/30 for all new tests.
7/30 "There is nothing in your noggin but a brain, Keith!" Amazing words to hear! "I would give your chest a clean bill."
8/1 "Keith, you are in remission." We don't consider a cure until you are clear for five years.
8/7 Began 15 rounds PCI brain radiation treatments. This was a difficult decision to make as we were given the side affects, and quite honestly it does sound scary. However, most all SCLC survivors appear to have some form of brain radiation at some time throughout their treatments. Dad figures that mom does the money books, organizes the meds, and keeps the house going already, so what the heck. "I don't want to die from cancer," he says!

August 25, 2006 Mom and Dad return after PCI. Dad feels great, has a tan, bald head, and got out onto the boat on day 1 of his return! Thank you God!

11/29/06 3 month Check Up...Still in remission. Lung scarring from radiation occuring. Dad feels great. Depression and low activity are going away!

2/25/07 Another check up shows no progression...however a slight pleural effusion that has grown since November. Could be one of three things...1. Infection 2. Scar Tissue 3. Cancer. Must go back to Mayo next week to have it drained and checked.

3/1/07 Drained pleural effusion yesterday. However, when they got in there, there wasn't enough fluid to drain and check...this means it probably wasn't cancer, and more than likely was the tail end of some kind of infection. She decides she wants him back in two months instead of three, just to be safe. Heart doc gives dad the clean bill of health. Go home, enjoy life!

5/11/07 Dad had a standard chest CT, which showed nothing new. He feels great and again was given a clean bill! Yeah! Doc will do a "big" check-up in August...complete with chest CT, bone scan, and brain scan...all because at that point he will be one year in remission! Yeah...I pray every day for these years to be granted!
8/21/07 Dad had a full body scan yesterday and results today were very "boring!" We LOVE boring. There was one nodule, in the lung area, that she could see, but it is smaller than small, and leaves no reason to be concerned. Dad will return for a check-up after Christmas. When mom said, "So, do we not need to be worried anymore" she answered with, "Your new normal will be that you are always worried." Yuck...but oh so true. Thank you God for the gift of healing, and may you continue with that wonderful gift. I pray in thanksgiving.

1/21/08 "I am going to call you my miracle man! Keith, I still don't see any evidence of cancer in your body." Wow! Blessed again!

5/19/08 "Keith there is no change. I see no evidence of any cancer." Wow! We are so blessed to be given another clean report. "Every day is a gift," my dad said. Isn't that the truth!

Sept. 08 Still Cancer Free

4/8/09 All evidence of the small cell is still gone. She believes Dad is cured. However, a dot on the CT almost a year ago has turned into an eraser sizes spot. This could just be a product of his recent bronchitis or could be when he breathed during the scan. She DOES NOT think we have anything to worry about. Scans will be in 3 months now, instead of 6 months...I am happy for that!

7/20/09 CT shows growth in spot on opposite lung than original cancer. They do not want to leave it alone. Will have PET and surgical consult next week with the hopes for simple removal.

8/2009 Removed spot. Biopsy showed trace of NSCLC. No SCLC found.

11/2009 All clear
3/2010 All clear
7/2010 All clear
11/2010 All clear. We really are so very blessed to continue to be cancer free. Thank you God.
8/23/11 - Still clear. Thank God!



Picture at left is my husband and I, October 2007. Below is Dad crossing the line during the survivor lap at the Relay. The other pic is just one of my faves!

[img]http://lchelp.org/picfiles/jen2.jpg[/img][img]http://lchelp.org/picfiles/ztweb3.jpg[/img]
[/size]

Oh Rich im so glad You posted this.
My positive side is I never knew how many wonderful friends I had until Lc.So many offers to drive me to drs and for treatments.even my boss offered.They know i dont drive and my boss actually said if I ever needed a ride to call him and if he couldnt leave hed send one of my friends from work.
Amazing how many people are there for us.And then theres all my friends on this board whom ive grown so close to.

_________________
[size=75]aug 29,05 tumor on lung found in er chest xray
sept6 05 primary dr sent me for cat scan
sept 20 went to oncologist,sent to pulmonary dr
sept 21,saw dr sent for cat scan pet scan
broncoscopy sept 28
saw surgeon twice for consultation
went for upper right lobectomy nov 9 05
checked lymph nodes,cancer found
surgery stopped
have to see oncologist nov 14 to set up chemo and radiation.going to fight this monster
photo is of me and my son.He found this site for me
started chemo and radiation.bad reaction to taxol.something different next week.
8weeks of taxotere and carbo,also radiation.
ct scan feb 1 shows 50%shrinkaage on to more taxotere every 3 weeks and then possible surgery.
7/06 more scans,still no surgery,Lymph nodes still lit up.No growth tho.no further treatment for now.Another ct scan next month.Seeking 2nd opinion Aug 06 still stable[/size]
nov.06 stable, hooray!!!!!!!
March 07 Still stable.Thank You Jesus!!!!!
Aug.07 Stable. Love that word
Dec 07 STABLE Scans again in three months
march 08.STABLEEEEEEEEEEE ty Lord Jesus
july 08 STABLE Thank You Jesus
nov 08 Bone and cat scans STABLE TY LORD
march 09 STABLEEEEEEE
aug 09 Stable scans every 6 months instead of 3. Thank You God
jan 2010 STILL STABLE Jesus is watching over me
July 2010 Stableeeeee Thank You Jesus
jan 2011 scans showing growth in nodule go for pet scan,Help me Jesus

Material things in Life just don't matter!!!!! Thats all I got to say!

_________________
April/03 My Wife Deborah, age 46, diagnosed adenocarcinoma NSCLC
1/20/2006 Admitted to hospital Respiratory distress
1/23/2006 Ran to the light and is waiting for us to be rejoined in the Kingdom Of Heaven Her journey is Over but mine lingers on for Now!!!
4/23/07 DEb is joined in Peace by her Puppy Dawg Daisy from Cancer
8/30/07 Got new Pup named Mocha!!

"No matter hnow much it hurts, No matter how alone you feel, Your friends will help you get through anything!!"
Scrubs!!!!Yes the comedy show!!!

The Reason I advocate
If you would like to see our family photos Click on this link!
http://deborah-wallin.memory-of.com/

My memory-of Link is good to go now if you want to see it!!

Lilly-- That's fantastic how you approach things and get on with life, you sure are an inspiration to many. Thanks for sharing!
Jackie-- Would love to hear more about your volunteer with cancer patients. Will indeed try to keep this thread going. Thanks again Jackie!
Bucky-- Kids add a whole new dimension to the meaning of life. Thanks again for your thoughts.
Jen-- Sane is overrated -- but seriously glad to read about the positive side and how you deal with things. Thanks.
Marie-- It's amazing how many people are willing to step up to the plate and help-- makes it so much easier for sure. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Randy-- Yep I agree, thanks!

Thanks again everyone for sharing your positive side off lung cancer. I really enjoyed reading them and it offers so much hope to so many, that there is a flip side to the coin. Hope to hear from more (patient, caregiver, family, friends, anyone) members!
Take care and God Bless,
Rich

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

I like this thread too. It's been hard to be positive, I thought I was a fairly positive person but find I'm not. Your posts are inspiring me to look more toward the good things during this time. Thanks friends:)
Barb

_________________
Husband, Rod, was diagnosed with NSCLC Squamus cell in July 2007.
He had leg pain starting in Dec 2006 but thought it was related to the torn cartilage in his right knee. He had the pre-op and knee surgery was done in March 2007.
Legs still hurt long after, Dr. didn't make him come in just kept prescribing pain meds. During my visits to my therapist she felt he was dealing with depression from pain, and the horrible tornado we experienced in May 2004, and to get him in to my Dr. to be evaluated.
6/12/07 Saw my Dr. D., she ordered his pre-op records from his first Dr. Put on Wellbutrin
6/29/07 Dr. D. Called me at home and said he had lung cancer.
7/5/07 Go to pulmonologist. scoped his lung, took a biopsy, it ended up Stage IV, NSCLC
7/23/07 1st visit with onc., Rod also has emphysema
7/25/07 MRI,Ultrasound, PET scan, cancer had mets to some ribs and most vertabrae
7/27/07 1st Chemo Avastin, Taxol, Carboplatin, Zoledronic repeat every 3 weeks. Given shot of Neulasta after each session. Tumor 33% smaller.
Main problem all along is terrible bone pain, legs and lower back. Then his right hand became almost useless, he would write at work with two hands. Dr. determined it is the Taxol. Stayed on Taxol, hand has since improved.
9/27/07 4th session of chemo finished, first cycle,
now on 5 week break, will have CT scan on 10/26, results appt. on 10/31.
Last two weeks at lab appt. he had low red blood ct. and was given a shot.
He takes 320mg oxycontin 12 hrs. apart with Oxydose for breakthrough pain. Also meds for cough.
Told to take a nice trip and make memories. He is in too much pain and doesn't like to travel.
10/26 CT scan
10/31 met with onc. tumor has grown some. sugg. hospice at home. Not ready for that, more treatment requested.
Told to quit driving bc of narcotics and consider cutting back hours.
Chemo today, Gemcitabine, Zometa,Decadron something else???
11/1/07 CT scan on legs, xray of legs, one positive for cancer, the other not positive
11/8/07 Dr. appt. Feet, legs very swollen, should have been wearing thigh high compression socks, ankles too swollen to get fitted, will measure again when less swollen. Has celulitis in feet, is that fungus? Also has "raging sinus infection". RX for fungus meds and antibiotic, no chemo. Re-stated need to stop driving. Rod took it as a suggestion previously. Will stop driving. Will cut back hours.Had a ct scan of head to dx sinus infection for sure and see brain.
11/12 no mets to brain, is a sinus infection, feet look so much better, had mri on leg to see what pain is from for sure, I can't believe how he has deteriorated since last week. We are not working this week.
11/13 met with onc. no more chemo, it would take his life sooner. Hospice is coming out to visit with us today.
11/15 signed up for Hospice, began morphine
11/17 as Jeff and I talked to Rod about Heaven, he would smile, there had been no responses before that for about 12 hours. I know the Holy Spirit revealed the Lord Jesus to him.
11/19 In peace and love, Rod is resting in the arms of Jesus.
12/8 and I am so unbelievably miserable

Barb I'm so glad that you are finding the good things to build on which helps tremendously in our journey's-- thanks for sharing.

Another positive side of my journey was when Geri (another member) approached me early last year about doing a Boston walk through LUNGevity. We thought we would get together with a few family/friends, raise a little money, walk around a park, go have a couple of beers afterward and that would be that. Thanks to all the hard work from Rochelle, all the committee members and so many people involved from all over the (including many from the board) country it took off beyond our wildest dreams. Something I will never forget. There is alway something positive to build on!

Would love to hear from more (patient, caregiver, family, friends, anyone) members!
Take care and God Bless,
Rich

_________________
TO READ ABOUT MY PROFILE (MY JOURNEY WITH LUNG CANCER - AS THE CHEMO DRIPS!) WITH STAGE IV LUNG (BAC) CANCER, DIAGNOSED MAY, 2002 / PROGNOSES TWO YEARS AND MY STORY PLEASE CLICK LINK BELOW.
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 2155#72155

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR / HELPFUL LINKS:
http://lungevity.org/l_community/viewto ... 585#163585

You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. -Advanced stage lung cancer survivor RA Block-

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-Buddhist Quote On Gratitude-

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up, we will then begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.
-Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross-

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. -Author Unknown-

Top Ten Reasons Why I’m A Lung Cancer Survivor

10. Not going into funeral mode the day I was diagnosed. I never once thought this was it, that life was over or why bother. Lung Cancer is not a death sentence and one can be cured of it or still have a life living with it for many years.
9. Not dwelling on it. How I got it, why me, what if I did this/that or the blame game etc. It’s counter productive and wasted energy.
8. RESEARCH, RESEARCH and more RESEARCH. Knowledge is the key! The more one knows the better one can make decision with their doctor and better fight. Keeping it simple, does not really matter to me every little word on a report. Try to get down to the chase of what is going on and what needs to be done.
7. Living life to the fullest by making the best of it every day and by keeping busy. Life is short enough so why let a day go by.
6. I appreciate everything my family/friends do for me. I let them (especially Kathy and Tina) know how much it means to me and how much I love them.
5. Not making my disease about me. It affects my family/friends just as much if not more. My life has changed and I have to learn to adjust to the new normal. If I can’t do things or go places does not mean they can’t. It’s very important they have a life and go about it.
4. Keeping an open mind about treatments. Don’t know unless you try. Laughter, it’s the best medicine, does not have to be all doom and gloom. Exercise, it’s good for overall health and a great stress reliever. Healthy (common sense) diet, this one I need to improve on. I can eat in a coma.
3. Staying positive and having a good attitude. YES it does make a difference regardless of what adversity one faces. Have my days like anyone else but they are few and far in between.
2. All my doctors/nurses. I’m very blessed/fortunate to have a great medical team and great health coverage.
1. My wife.my daughter and my closest friend I love them the most and they mean the most to me. I owe it to them, there the ones who have stood by my no matter what and showed me the true meaning of family, life and love is all about. You can lead a horse to water but can’t get it to drink. Bottom line it’s up to me to be pro-active, to keep trying and to never never never give up!

I, too, looked at this post like "what could be the positive side of having cancer?" But then as I read all the other posts, I realized that there have been so many things I have realized in this past year that I would never have known if it were not for my cancer.

1. Your true friends ARE your true friends and they will do ANYTHING to help you out. Mine cooked for me for two months, and my sons swim team collected money and frequent flyer miles behind my back to send me, my husband and my son to Arizona this past summer. They call, offering all kinds of help and I have learned to be able to say "thank you" and allow people to do for me.

2. I learned that my husband and I are MUCH closer than what I had thought. Before I had cancer, we were both off doing our own thing and not spending quality time together like we should have been doing.

3. More than anything, I am trying to instill in my teenage son that life is worth living, and you have to stand up and fight!! Never, ever, give up - not on life or anything in your life!! And I hope so much that when my days are over, that I will have taught him to live up to the last moment with dignity, caring for other people and grace.

Isn't it sad that it took me being diagnosed with cancer to open all this up in my life. So I guess there is a positive side of cancer because there are so many others out there who may never realize the things I have.

God bless you all.
Patti

One of the positive things that has happened is I've realized how strong I could be. I think I might have "kicked *ss"!!!!
It's not always easy, but I try to appreciate everyday, some of the little things. I read a book that said to try and appreciate certain things like washing dishes. I think I'm doing good on that one.
2 days in a row last week I sat in traffic for about 2 hours. I generally think I've become less patient since my cancer, which may not be positive, but... sitting in that traffic I thought to myself... I am HERE, tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I have water and crackers in the car, my cellphone battery was very low, but I have music, so what if my leg is getting tired on the clutch (I have a stick-shift)... I am HERE!

-Elyse

_________________
Dx'd. 3/06-NSCLC, Stage IIIb
Age 42 at diagnoses.
1/06 SOB and coughed up a little blood, which they thought it came from my sinuses.
During next 5-6 weeks, thought I might have developed Asthma and was treated for it. During that time had 2 chest Xrays and CT Scan w/o contrast (possible allergy to Iodine).
CT Scan found collapsed lung.
3/9/06 Brochoscopy-found tumor
3/17/06 Mediastinoscopy-clear lymph nodes in mediastinum
3/24/06 Right Pneumonectomy and 20 lymph nodes removed, 2 lymphs affected. Pericardial patch. 4 cm T4 tumor, tumor up against pericardium and pulmonary vein-positive margins.
Drs. felt they "got it all out" but wanted chemo and radiation done.
6/6/06 started 3 mths. Chemo (Cisplatin & Taxotere).
8/30/06 started 6 weeks radiation.
5/8/07 CT scan-stable.
18 mths. since surgery and doing well!
9/10/07 CT Scan was stable! Yes!
Walked in the 5th Annual Lung Cancer Walk benefitting Lungevity.
12/20/07 CT scan showed a change. Nodules in fluid in the chest cavity. Thickening around my 1 lung. Some enlarged lymph nodes.
12/29/07 PET scan

My husband and I the day we got our demo/new house permit.

There's no doubt that a lung cancer diagnosis and the horrors that follow (and my horrors have been minor so far, compared to so many) give you an attitude adjustment. I appreciate so many things now that I never gave a second thought about before.

The other positive for me is that the chemotherapy seems to have mosquito-proofed me for five months and counting.

_________________
Bud

Long distance cyclist and lung cancer survivor
56 years old at time of diagnosis in 2007, now live in Crowley, Tx
Nov 2007 - Tentatively diagnosed as NSCLC stage I from CT scan
Dec 2007 - Upper left lobectomy, biopsy showed one cancerous lymph node, changing the diagnosis to stage II (squamous cell)
Feb to Apr 2008 - Three rounds of cisplatin and gemcitabine
Apr 2008 - chest x-ray, NED
May 2008 - brain mri, clear
Jul 2008 - CT scan, NED
Dec 2008 - CT scan, NED
June 2009 - CT scan, NED
Jan 2010 - CT scan, NED
July 2010 - CT scan, NED
June 2011 - CT scan, NED
May 2012 - CT scan, NED
December 2012 - CT scan, NED. I am now a 5 year survivor!

June 2009 - Wife Rose diagnosed with breast cancer
Stage III IDC
Sept 2009 - Finished 4 rounds of chemo (AC)
Nov 2009 - Surgery
March 2010 - Finished 12 weeks of weekly Taxol
August 2010 - CT scan, NED
August 2011 - Checkup, NED
August 2012 - Checkup, NED
The rest of my story is at:

http://www.lungevity.org/l_community/vi ... hp?t=38841

My blog - uneasy-rider.com

The positive side of cancer from a caretaker's point of view...

Our family came together like never before and fought the beast. As we fought the beast, we were able to make memories that must last a lifetime. And when we saw that it was time to lay down our weapons, we were able to say and do those things that were most important to us.

Cancer, as vicious as it can be, allows us the time to make memories.

Lynn

_________________
07/07: Diagnosed stage 4 SCLC. Carboplatin/VP-16, great scans. NED lung/hip, resolving liver.
11/07: Mixed scans. Repeat in 01/08.
01/08: Had seizures same week as scans. New mets: brain/adrenal glands. Active: lung/liver. In ICU overnight. Transferred to Hospice Wing next day.
01-28-08: Home on Hospice. Very critically ill.
01-31-08: Marked improvement. Sought second opinion. Yes, right diagnosis. Chose to not pursue further treatment.
02-05-08: Decided to fight w/Hycamtin.
04/08: Scans: Lung stable. Liver, adrenal gland, brain mets worse. Trying Gemzar.
05-12-08: CyberKnife for 4 of 6 brain mets. (Not WBR candidate-had radiation for non-hodgkin's lymphoma in 1984.)
05-26-08--06-10-08: Meds adjusted for increasing pain.
06-12-08: Fell down. Not injured.
06-19-08: Very wobbly. Brain MRI reveals innumerable lesions scattered throughout.
06-23-08: Hearing loss in right ear due to brain mets.
06-26-08: Not pursuing additional treatment.
07-24-08: Larry passed away at home at 8:10 pm, just the way he wanted. It was a gentle death. God's mercy is infinite.

Some of my favorite things -- about having Stage 4 adenocarcinoma:

1. I don't intend to ever see a dentist again.
2. My chances of getting Alzheimer's (always my biggest fear) have dropped to zero.
3. My chances of going blind from macular degeneration (like my father and his 3 brothers) (my 2nd biggest fear) have dropped to zero.
4. The likelihood of my spending my final years in a diaper in a nursing home have dropped to zero.
5. The chances of my never seeing another Republican elected President are high.

Seriously, my heart goes out to the younger people in my medical situation who have young children -- but I'm 64, have done everything I ever wanted to do, and figure I'm going to avoid the only things that frighten me. Of course, I'd be delighted if I woke up and this was all a dream -- but it could sure be worse.

Ellen in PA

_________________
-66-yr-old woman
-Dx 12/26/07 at age 63
-Stage 4 NSCLC, adenocarcinoma, with mets to local lymph nodes, salivary gland, and pelvis, later vertebra.
-Have chosen to do no chemo or chest radiation -- have had radiation to pelvis and spine to lessen discomfort and, mainly, to lessen likelihood of stress fractures and nerve root damage. Successful!

Oh My God Ellen, Okay, okay okay, this was too toooooo funny, but Damn Girl, your ONLY and I STRESS THE WORD O N L Y 64 years YOUNG. Are you KIDDING ME??? My hubby is 64.

But, I gotta agree there's always the FLIP side of things!!! LOL!

Gotta tell ya though, I have a good friend of mine who is a STAGE IV, 9 year lung cancer survivor and she just turned 70 in August. So crap happens and you just might live a very looonnnng life and maybe die in the middle of making love or something like that. ( kind of my wishful way of thinking)! LOL LOL LOL !!!!

_________________
Warm and Gentle Hugs,
Connie B
Date Dx.d, 7/21/1995, Age 43, Adenocarcinoma, Stage IIIB, had 3.4cm tumor and three cancerous lymph nodes.
7/25/1995 had Left Lung Removed along with several lymph nodes.
9/9/95 Started Chemo (VP-16/Cisplatin), & Radiation (36 treatments). Cancer Free.
8/11/2003 CT Scan found 4mm Nodule Right Upper Lung. Did PET scan & Nodule Lite up. Also found a Tumor in my Left Atrium (Heart)
8/21/03 Open Heart Sugery for Myxoma Tumor in Left Atrium. During heart surgery (3) surgeons checked 4mm nodule & agreed it did not appear to be cancerous.
11/2004-CT & PET scan, nodule still there 6mm will watch.
4/2005-CT, Nodule still there and has grown to 8mm will do another CT in 9/2005. Waiting & watching nodule.
9/2005 CT Nodule has shrunk to 5mm. Doctor's feel nodule could be scar tissue.
2/2006 Having Shortness of Breath problems.
4/2006 CT, nodule 5mm No Change.
11/2006 CT scan no change in Nodule.
4/26/07 Results of CT scan shows I have another Noudule. Now have two nodules, one is 6-7mm & the new one is about 3mm.
9/2007 CT shows 3 nodules all mm in size. First 2 have no change in them. New one is very small. Repeat CT in 6 months.
12/11/07 Still NED
5/7/08 CT (right lung) (nodules watch) two new nodules I now have 5 nodules. Will watch via CT scans.
10/08 CT Scan showed 1 nodule 6mm has grown to 1.2cm.
5/22/09 CT Scan (awaiting results)
7/4/09 PET Scan (3 nodules in left lung are now 1.4c.m in sizes.
8/13/09 Did Bronhcoscopy
8/18/09 NOT Cancer, no cancer found.
Next PET Scan Oct 2009.

READ MY STORY @ http://www.lungevity.org/l_community/vi ... hp?t=13224

Lost my Father age 56(1970), Mother age 66 (1987), and Sister age 43 (1988) all to Lung Cancer
AVATAR is in Iowa @ the Presidential Cancer Forum

Ellen-

Your post cracked me up!!!! I love it!!!

Of course, I wouldn't mind Connie's idea of croaking during a hot sex session!!

Hugs - Patti B.

I have always known I was strong, resilient and fiercely independent. Post dx of advanced lung cancer, I'm still strong and resilient but have made some positive adjustments to my independent streak. I was so fatigued through most of my treatments that I had to learn to depend on my husband. He really took care of me and I had to let him. I still joke that I have to be careful or I'll become that little old lady whose husband drives her everywhere!

Some of the positive aspects of cancer for me was learning not to sweat the small stuff, letting go of childhood financial fears (don't worry about not having enough money, you never will have enough lol), and finally letting go of my workaholic tendencies. Having retired my counseling practice, I'm free to travel with my husband while he works. I also have a new appreciation of people and our common histories. I was already reconnecting with old gal friends from grade school and high school in recent years, and the way they rallied around me when I visted NJ in July was heartwarming. My husband and I reconnected with even more old friends this current trip when we revisited the Kutztown area where we lived 22 years ago. It was fabulous to meet old friends and feel like we just picked up where we left off even though we haven't seen each other in years.

I've let go of old family hurts and resentments, and I find myself dealing with those people with humor and patience. Life is too short. Most importantly, I appreciate the fact that working through the bumps and bruises and near divorce in 44 years of marriage (we're an opposites attract kind of couple) was so worth the effort. In spite of all the people who care about us, when it comes right down to it, we really only have each other.

Judy writing from a WalMart parking lot in VA!

Thanks, Connie and Patti! But Connie, you've really cheered me up (NOT) -- you mean, I can have Stage 4 LC AND live to get Alzheimer's and go blind?!? Ah, the wonders of modern medicine...

Ellen

_________________
-66-yr-old woman
-Dx 12/26/07 at age 63
-Stage 4 NSCLC, adenocarcinoma, with mets to local lymph nodes, salivary gland, and pelvis, later vertebra.
-Have chosen to do no chemo or chest radiation -- have had radiation to pelvis and spine to lessen discomfort and, mainly, to lessen likelihood of stress fractures and nerve root damage. Successful!

Ellen, I'll definitely get into trouble for making a political comment here, but I absolutely love your #5!!

Aloha,
Ned

_________________
Ned is just my nickname, though it would be nice to merge it with the other meaning eventually...

Aloha means "Hello, goodbye, love, compassion, welcome, good wishes." It means belonging to others with a common humanity. It's defined better as a feeling in the heart than by words.

Dx NSCLC adenocarcinoma IIIb Sep 2006, now stage IV. Taxol+Carboplatin+Avastin 4 mo., Avastin 8 mo., Tarceva 16 mo., Alimta 12 mo. (sometimes combined with Cisplatin or Carboplatin), Navelbine since Feb 2010, 10 sessions of WBR in March 2011. See My Cancer Journey: viewtopic.php?p=351369#p351369 — UPDATED 03/05/2011.

Above left: Our golden retriever Rosie, who joined the family on 3/5/08 at the playful age of 2.

Below: Hannah, our golden companion 1994-2007.

Ned, I'll sneak in here with a me too!

Judy traveling through NC

Absolutely, the struggle with cancer can have positive results. If we are still here, it's hard not to appreciate every day, every moment, more. To cherish our relationships, the love we give and the love we receive. To feel compassion for those less fortunate.

The hair on my legs and under my arms does not need shaving every other day. First time in 40 years.

Stephanie has inspired me! LOL! The hair on my head is finally growing in it's about an inch long now and it is curly (yah!) and it is as soft as a baby bunny! Next sorry guys you probably won't relate, but I finally no longer have my "monthly", double yah!!!!

_________________
Mar. '08-Routine xray found Spot tip of upper left lung.
Dr orders CAT. growth confirmed.
Sent to Pulmonolgist who orders PET.
Pet results-my spot lights up like a Christmas tree.
Can't reach spot for biopsy referred to surgeon.
Surgical Biopsy scheduled for Apr. 28th '08
Apr. '08-Surgeon found SCLC, removed upper left lobe and surronding lymph nodes.
Everything biopsied no other cancer found, declaired NED by surgeon on Apr.28th '08
ONC wants me to start adjuvant therapy.
June '08-MRI brain scan and CAT NED
Chemo cisplatin/vp16 3 days every 3 weeks 4 sessions ended Aug. '08
Partial hearing loss due to Cisplatin
Sept. '08 1st CAT after treatment NED
Dec. '08-2nd CAT after treatment NED
Apr. '09-MRI (brain) and CAT NED
Aug. '09-CAT NED
Dec. '09-CAT and MRI NED
Apr. '10-CAT and MRI NED
Oct. '10-CAT and MRI NED
Jan. '11-XRay NED
Oct. '11-CAT NED

I found something else positive! My hair was shoulder length, straight and medium brown. It is now short, black and curly! I always wanted curly hair!

Dana

_________________
Mar. '08-Routine xray found Spot tip of upper left lung.
Dr orders CAT. growth confirmed.
Sent to Pulmonolgist who orders PET.
Pet results-my spot lights up like a Christmas tree.
Can't reach spot for biopsy referred to surgeon.
Surgical Biopsy scheduled for Apr. 28th '08
Apr. '08-Surgeon found SCLC, removed upper left lobe and surronding lymph nodes.
Everything biopsied no other cancer found, declaired NED by surgeon on Apr.28th '08
ONC wants me to start adjuvant therapy.
June '08-MRI brain scan and CAT NED
Chemo cisplatin/vp16 3 days every 3 weeks 4 sessions ended Aug. '08
Partial hearing loss due to Cisplatin
Sept. '08 1st CAT after treatment NED
Dec. '08-2nd CAT after treatment NED
Apr. '09-MRI (brain) and CAT NED
Aug. '09-CAT NED
Dec. '09-CAT and MRI NED
Apr. '10-CAT and MRI NED
Oct. '10-CAT and MRI NED
Jan. '11-XRay NED
Oct. '11-CAT NED

Rich,

Great topic. We all tend to focus on the negative, especially me. But I have learned a lot through this journey and there are some positives. I have become much closer to my daughter and the people who matter. I realized how important those special moments are. I take nothing for granted. I have way more empathy for other people and will do whatever it takes to help anyone in need. My compassion for human life grows everyday.

Thank you for keeping me in check

Libby

_________________
43 yr old female with a 12 yr old daughter.
May 2007 - Diagnosed with stage 3A Squamous Cell NSCLC.
5/15/07 - In hospital to have left upper lobe removed. Stage and cancer type was confirmed. Removed several lymph nodes, 2 tested positive for cancer. Home after 5 day.
5/24/07 Went to Oncologist. Did CT/PET scans (praying they got all the cancer out).
6/4/07 Got results, lymph node by main artery showed cancer. Can not remove due to location. Good news was that there was no sign so far that it spread any further than that. Set up an appointment with Radiation Specialist.
6/15/07 Receive chemo every week for 6 weeks ( Carbo & Taxol) and radiation 5 days a week for six weeks, (33 radiation treatments were planned). We stopped at 30 treatments because of 2nd degree burns on my back.
Finished radiation and chemo on 7/26/07. Was in hospital and had 3 ½ weeks off of treatments.
8/15/07 Started chemo every 3 weeks for 9 weeks with larger doses.
9/28/07 Finish final chemo. Will have scans done 11/6/07 and see Dr. for results on 11/9/07.
11/07 Received results, cancer free. Was told this was a good sign considering the stage. need to follow up every 3 months with scans.
8/09 - Now receiving CT scans every 6 months, just had one in Aug so far no signs of cancer. Made the 2 1/2 year mark. Still problems with inflamation with lungs due to radiation damage.
3/10 CT scan no sign of cancer. What a relief!
7/10 still going strong no scan for 1 yr now, next scan is March, I am nervous waiting so long but I will survive. I am a survivor.
3/11 CT Scan, No signs of cancer. Thank you God.

all of you...survivors who show us inspiration each and every day- are the positive side of lung cancer.

It's no longer sweating the small stuff and remembering that it's people- not things- that are so important.

And telling people how you feel- right away. Showing graditude and care and compassion like I could never imagine.

The importance of standing up for the medical care you deserve.

It's treasuring memory making opportunities...

All of those things are the positives that came out of it for me.

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- Katie Brown, Co-Founder of LCSC- Director of Support & Advocacy

18 yr cancer survivor.
Certified Patient Navigator
www.iamkatiebrown.com


In memory of Jessee Dewey, SCLC
December 29, 1938 - September 6, 2003
Lisa Dewey- Jan. 22, 2007
my parents are together in heaven


facebook http://www.facebook.com/lungevity

Material things are just that Its the emotional and mental things and what not that make the difference in this fight and life!!

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April/03 My Wife Deborah, age 46, diagnosed adenocarcinoma NSCLC
1/20/2006 Admitted to hospital Respiratory distress
1/23/2006 Ran to the light and is waiting for us to be rejoined in the Kingdom Of Heaven Her journey is Over but mine lingers on for Now!!!
4/23/07 DEb is joined in Peace by her Puppy Dawg Daisy from Cancer
8/30/07 Got new Pup named Mocha!!

"No matter hnow much it hurts, No matter how alone you feel, Your friends will help you get through anything!!"
Scrubs!!!!Yes the comedy show!!!

The Reason I advocate
If you would like to see our family photos Click on this link!
http://deborah-wallin.memory-of.com/

My memory-of Link is good to go now if you want to see it!!

Well this will be a little bit of an odd way to tell a positive story but I'll tell it. My Dad was diagnosed with lung cancer when I was about 20 years old. He was on an oxygen concentrator the whole 9 yards. I was smoking at the time and I knew he wasn't in good shape. He promised me he'd be alive to see me get married. I knew he really had to fight to keep his promise. He died after my husband and I got home from our honeymoon. To this day that is the greatest act of fatherhood I have ever witnessed. My Dad is my hero.

Nice story - even better if you tell us you quit smoking as well? Welcome to LUNGevity and LCSC - anything you need from us? An ear, a word of advice? Please introduce yourself and let us know.

Great story. We have heard it in various forms before--people staying alive for weddings, the birth of grandchildren, seeing a young man or woman graduate from HS. It's always inspiring and surprising to know that even against this villian LC, some people have amazing will.

Judy in KW

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Cytology report on fluid removed from lung after pleural effusion and pneumonia Sep 07 showed adenocarcinoma cells. Dx IIIb NSCLC Oct '07 at MDACC, Orlando. Fol 6 rounds Taxol/Carboplatin/Avastin and 2 Avastin, CT/PET 4/1/08 pleural thickening gone and no active cancer cells. 11/3/08 STILL NEVD. CT/PET/MRI 5/4/09 Cancer back, still in the pleura and chest wall, small amt of fluid, all in left lung.
5/11/09 Start on Alimta every three weeks.
7/13/10 Had Alimta on road in Corning NY.
8/24/09 Scans show some improvement. Continue on Alimta.
9/14/09 Chemo on road in Mt Holly NJ.
10/6/09 Started regular Alimta infusions in Key West.
11/3/09 CT and PET scans showed significant improvement. Some issues already resolved.
2/3/2010 No evidence of residual or recurrent disease. NED! Stay on Alimta.
5/6/10 Am considering myself still NED until/unless proven otherwise in July. Rabid radiologist thinks he sees something suggestive of similar to some abdominal cancer. No light up on the PET. Am hoping for the best. Stay on Alimta and scan in 9 wks instead of 3 mos.
7/8/10 Chest CT unchanged (NED Feb '10). Infiltration in the region of the omentum is probably slightly more prominent than before. Diverticulosis requiring antibiotics.
Jul, Aug, Sep, continued Alimta in Corning NY, Portsmouth OH and Mt Holly NJ.
10/14/10 Chest CT unchanged from Feb '10. Findings likely representing progressive nodular peritonal carcinomatosis in the midabdomen. Treatment changed to Tarceva started in Nov.
12/15/10 Chest CT unchanged. Abdomen changes compatible with peritoneal carcinomatosis again identified with mild progression noted.
3/16/11 CT chest unchanged. CT abdomen progression ascites (fluid). Progression of soft tissues nodularity on the peritoneal surface anteriorly with diffuse omental involvement.
4/13-15/11 Hospitalized at MDA. Removed 4 1/2 litres (8-9 lbs) of fluid from abdomen 4/14. Started on taxotere before release on 4/15.
5/16/11 Hospitalized for fever, neutropenic. Treated with intravenous antibiotic and antiviral. Given blood transfusion. Note that KW Cancer Center did not give me my Neulasta shot after my chemo on May 6. Onc had me cancel my 5/26 chemo until after my scan on Jun 6. Was discharged on oxygen. Test w/Dr Gerth 5/26 indicated I could go off sitting and sleeping O. Will do walking test 6/2.
6/2 Did not get requisite numbers on walking test. Left for Orlando 6/5 still on oxygen.
6/6/11 MRI normal; CT stable. Taxotere and Neulasta at MDA 6/7 and 6/8.
6/13/11 Appointment with Dr Olham in KW. Off oxygen week of 6/16.
8/8/11 CT scan showed stable with perhaps some lessening of fluid. Stay on Taxotere.
10/10/11 CT chest still clear, CT abdominal lining stable. Stay on taxotere.
12/19/11 CT chest clear, CT abdominal lining stable, MRI clear. Stay on taxotere.