My name is Pauline and I’m an ex-smoker. In June 2024, I learned I had stage 0 lung cancer. Having gone through chemo for treatment, I’m now on immunotherapy.
I found out I had small cell lung cancer (SCLC) through a lung screening program given to smokers and ex-smokers.
I was told that small cell lung cancer cannot be cured but managed. This news made me fearful.
Following my doctor’s recommendation, I opted for chemotherapy and immunotherapy. My treatment is done on the NHS. Honestly, I couldn’t believe how many people were having the same treatment as me for cancer.
I had 4 rounds of chemo for 4 months. I’m still having immunotherapy now every 3 weeks with scans every 3 months. The immunotherapy will go on for a total of 5 rounds over 5 months. I see the consultant every 3 weeks, so I get updates and regular blood tests. This makes me optimistic.
I was very ill while having chemotherapy. Other side effects I had to deal with include fatigue, hand and foot syndrome and weight changes. To cope, I improved my nutrition.
I’ve not made any plans in the next 2 years but I do have plans for the current year.
I stopped working after my diagnosis; I went on sick leave which is ongoing.
While I’ve had to face some challenges in my day-to-day life, difficulties in my professional life impacted me the most. Now, I’m still on sick leave but hoping to go back to work soon.
My greatest fears have been the fear of:
- Losing independence or ability to care for myself
- Being a burden to loved ones
- Not being able to continue with normal life or activities
- The impact on family or relationships
To cope with these thoughts, I’ve been:
- Seeking support from family or friends
- Focusing on physical recovery and staying active
- Educating myself about the cancer and treatment process
- Focusing on positive thinking or gratitude
Today I am optimistic, having had chemotherapy and now having immunotherapy.
Stay positive and take the advice from your consultant. There are also cancer nurses who you can contact if you’re feeling unsure or just to talk to. I have great support from family and friends as well.
Be prepared for feeling ill. Advise your family for support to help with food and drink as I lost all my energy during chemotherapy, plus I lost a stone in weight. My children kept me going by bringing meals round and taking me to hospital for appointments.
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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