How I Learned I had Stage 4 Lung Cancer - Anne | The Patient Story

Recent questions

• How did Anne's cancer diagnosis impact her life?

  Anne faced challenges in getting a timely diagnosis due to a lack of awareness among physicians about lung cancer in non-smoking women. Despite being an endurance athlete, she was diagnosed with advanced metastatic lung cancer in her spine. This diagnosis significantly impacted her life, leading to treatment involving Tagrisso and palliative radiation. However, Tagrisso improved her condition, allowing her to resume activities like skiing, running, and biking. Anne also experienced side effects like a rash from the treatment, managed with oral antibiotics and skin care. Overall, her cancer diagnosis brought about significant changes in her life, from the challenges of diagnosis to the impact of treatment on her daily activities.

• What treatment did Anne undergo for her lung cancer?

  Anne underwent next-generation sequencing to identify mutations in her cancer, leading to a treatment plan involving Tagrisso and palliative radiation. Tagrisso significantly improved Anne's condition, allowing her to resume activities like skiing, running, and biking. Despite experiencing side effects like a rash from the treatment, which was managed with oral antibiotics and skin care, the overall treatment plan involving Tagrisso and palliative radiation had a positive impact on Anne's health. This personalized treatment approach based on next-generation sequencing played a crucial role in managing her lung cancer.

• What advice did Anne give regarding lung cancer treatment?

  Anne emphasized the importance of early screening and next-generation sequencing (NGS) testing in lung cancer treatment. Her experience highlighted the significance of identifying mutations in cancer through NGS to tailor personalized treatment plans. By advocating for early screening and NGS testing, Anne stressed the importance of early detection and targeted therapies in improving outcomes for individuals facing lung cancer diagnoses. This advice underscores the value of personalized medicine in cancer treatment and the role of advanced diagnostic techniques in guiding effective therapies.

• How did Anne participate in cancer research?

  Anne participated in a clinical trial at UC Irvine targeting her EGFR mutation, showing a decrease in tumor burden and improved quality of life. This involvement in cancer research allowed Anne to access innovative treatments tailored to her specific mutation, leading to positive outcomes in terms of tumor response and quality of life. By participating in clinical trials, Anne contributed to advancing knowledge and treatment options for individuals facing similar cancer diagnoses. Her experience underscores the importance of research participation in driving progress in cancer care and improving outcomes for patients.

• What resources did Anne recommend for cancer patients?

  Anne recommended reaching out to organizations like the Bonnie Addario Lung Cancer Foundation and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation for valuable resources, including patient education booklets and mentoring programs. These advocacy groups provide support and resources for individuals facing cancer diagnoses, offering guidance, information, and community for patients and their families. By highlighting the role of advocacy groups in providing support and resources, Anne emphasized the importance of seeking out these organizations for assistance, education, and connection during the cancer journey.