What does it mean to be thankful when you have metastatic lung cancer?
Four years ago on Thanksgiving, my extended family gathered for a somewhat somber meal. I had been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer the previous May, and despite aggressive treatment, the cancer had spread further. Although the tumors in my left lung and between my lungs were shrinking due to chemo and radiation, the new mass at the base of my neck was starting to threaten my carotid artery. I could see it growing week by week. I felt flashes of hope mingled with panic, anger and regret. Lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer for both men and women and the survival rate for metastatic disease is less than 5 percent. My presence at future family gatherings was far from assured.
This year, I am immensely grateful to have seen three more Thanksgivings and to have no evidence of disease for three years and counting.
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I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from so many throughout my cancer journey. I’m grateful for compassionate … READ MORE
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