GetDocSays speaks to Mary (not her real name), a stage 4 lung cancer survivor on her ordeal. Mary recounts her experience on how she journeyed from an alarming diagnosis to treatment and recovery; presenting a story of courage, triumph over adversity and HOPE.
How did you find out you had stage 4 lung cancer?
It started in early 2018. I began coughing a lot. For a while, I brushed it off as a common cold symptom going to conventional doctors and tried out Traditional Chinese Medication, but all that did not seem to help. The coughing persisted for about 2 years. It was only at a medical check in February 2020, as I was going to start a new position at work, that the review found a rise in cancer markers. Upon further investigations, doctors revealed that I had stage 4 lung cancer!
After the tears and the initial shock of the diagnosis, all that was in my mind was, “How did this happen? How could we have missed this?” “I’ve had medical reviews before, how did the x-rays not show, and the tumours grow to such a large size?” The questions were relentless in my mind but after talking to friends, we realized no amount of questioning was going to do any good at this point.
So what happened after the diagnosis?
As the tumour was so large, there was no time to investigate further. The lung cancer diagnosis brought some relief in an odd way, explaining why I was in the bad state at that time. At least, there was an explanation. So I spent more of my energy moving forward to do what was necessary. I needed all the energy I could muster.
We went from scan to scan, while taking comfort by the progress that took place. Initially, the plan was to go to Tan Tock Seng Hospital but it was the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. So the doctors recommended I go to a private practice specialist instead, as hospitals were overwhelmed with the then imploding COVID situation. I believe this was God’s way of rerouting and directing me to the place I should to be. Overall, I was really appreciative of the fact that I had ample medical attention amidst the pandemic.
The treatment plan given to me at the beginning was for chemotherapy and at the same time, radiation. It was also made known that I had another tumour in the brain. I had to go for brain radiosurgery too. It all happened very quickly, and soon after, immunotherapy was also added into the mix – followed by another diagnosis of a precancerous growth in the colon.
It was frightening to receive one bad news followed soon by another. However the oncologist and the medical team persisted and continued further appropriate treatment as each new challenge appeared. It was like a roller coaster ride during this difficult time.
Since treatment, how does your recovery process look like?
The good news is that I am now in remission, although I’m still undergoing immunotherapy, which will last for at least another year. I live with my family, and I believe that their support – emotional and practical – will make all the difference in my fight against cancer.
I’m very happy with Dr Akhil Chopra and the nursing team from Oncocare Cancer Centre. Dr Chopra, an expert in cancer medicine, explained lung cancer and the available options excellently. I know how stressful it can be for the medical teams when dealing with anxious, fearful individuals & their families! Us patients also need motivated and happy nurses & doctors. The team of nurses were professional, yet warm and friendly, very helpful too.
Do you have any advice for individuals in similar situations right now?
If you are going through a similar situation right now, I urge you to find out more. Educate yourself as there are many types of cancers – and they are not the same. Some are severe and aggressive while some cancers are treatable with the latest advances in medical technology.
The information we have about cancer can be out of date; and the movies and stories don’t tell you enough. However, rapid medical advances are taking place all the time to deal with cancer, which give new hope to patients.
Lastly, do not be intimidated by the many stages of your cancer. It may sound intimidating. Even if you are in Stage 4 cancer, don’t lose hope as it is not a lost cause. Sometimes we can be easily frightened by the labels, but they do not mean much in the final analysis.
As a final note (more on a light-hearted side) I would seriously tell everyone : Health insurance is always a good thing.
A Word from GetDoc
Always listen to your body. Any unexplainable body changes should prompt a visit to the doctor for further investigation. If you or your loved one experience unusual signs and symptoms, consult a doctor today for early diagnosis and treatment.
This patient testimony was brought to you by Oncocare Cancer Centre, Singapore.
Further reads:
- How to Spot Cancer Early – Beware of the Warning Signs [Part 1]
- How to Spot Cancer Early – Beware of the Warning Signs [Part 2]
Find an Oncologist in Malaysia, on GetDoc
Find an Oncologist in Singapore, on GetDoc
Disclaimer
On balance, the authors, reviewers, and editors of GetDocSays have made extensive and reasonable efforts to ensure that medical information is accurate and conform to the standards of the publication. Also, they reflect the opinions and views of the contributors and not the publisher.
Likewise, the information on this site is not professional advice, neither to replace personal consultation with a physician, dentist, pharmacist, or other health care professional. Therefore the reader should not disregard medical advice or delay seeking it because of the information published here.
by Jemima Joseph
Using words to create communities. Intrinsically passionate about people, music, and the arts. View all articles by Jemima Joseph.
