There are some newer experiments going on in [stereotactic body radiation therapy]. It’s thought that radiation can cause the release of antigens, small proteins that activate your immune system.
People may assume your cancer is self-inflicted due to smoking. But it can happen even if you’ve never smoked a cigarette.
- Foster Lasley, MD
My Experience
I think a major plus for us in this journey has been that we’re educated people. We know not to just trust what one doctor says. We know how to be our own advocates.
– Leah Phillips
Advocacy
The biggest thing I’ve learned is that while all lung cancers start in the same organ, the cancer can differ on a cellular level. These DNA distinctions are important and affect which treatment works best.
– Bianca Bye
Advocacy
It's important for people with stage IV lung cancer to understand that palliative care can help you manage treatment side effects. I've used it to relieve side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and rash.
– Larry Gershon
My Experience
This experience has turned me into a more positive human. It sounds crazy. You’d think the opposite. But I’m so much more positive in life than before.
– Natalie Brown
Expert View
There is a perception that chemotherapy is like treatments from 20 or 30 years ago … but we have made significant advances in managing the toxicities that come with these cancer medications.
– Alison Massey, adult nurse practitioner
My Experience
I have set up my home office so that I can stay on top of deadlines and priorities. My memory is a bit of a struggle at times, and things take me longer than they used to.
– Amy McMillin
Expert View
The more we normalize the stress, complexity, and uncertainty of the cancer journey, and that it’s sometimes emotionally overwhelming, the more you’ll feel comfortable asking for help.
