Hi, I am Cari from Canada. I have a family history of cancer — my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer, my brother was diagnosed with lung cancer and my sister was diagnosed with brain cancer.
After months of dealing with a persistent cough, I finally sought medical attention. Following a series of tests, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in May 2021. In the time since, I have undergone chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
I had a persistent cough that I initially thought was not serious. However, when it didn’t go away after 6 months to a year, I finally went to see a doctor. I was also dealing with shortness of breath and feeling very tired all the time. Subsequent tests revealed that I had stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), specifically lung adenocarcinoma.
When I initially learnt about my cancer, I was fearful. My brother had just died from lung cancer.
I trusted my doctor’s recommendation and opted for chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. I felt fearful even after deciding on this as it was terrifying to wait and see if the treatments were helping keep my cancer at bay.
I took targeted therapy pills everyday and had chemotherapy and immunotherapy (Keytruda) every three weeks. In total, I have undergone 26 rounds of chemotherapy, 25 rounds of targeted therapy and 18 rounds of immunotherapy, all over a span of 14 months. I am currently only on immunotherapy. In terms of treatment costs, I am covered by Pharmacare, a Canadian government initiative that provides coverage for prescribed medications.
Owing to the treatment, I have been struggling with fatigue, diarrhea and hair loss. I am constantly exhausted and can only do what is absolutely necessary. I also have to deal with nausea and I was surprised at how bad the nausea would get. To cope with this, I try to increase my exercise frequency.
I resigned from my job after being diagnosed with cancer.
My day-to-day life has been significantly impacted since I was diagnosed with cancer. However, great friends, neighbours and my kids have been helping me to cope with it.
My biggest fear is not surviving or dying. I am trying to cope by seeking support from family or friends.
Even though some time has passed, I still feel fearful and sad today. I have a young family to take care of alone as my husband has passed away.
Pace yourself. Only do what you have to do when you feel exhausted. Be grateful for friends and family. Every day is a blessing. Be happy every time the Sun comes up.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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