In Nov '06 I was diagnosed with nsclc stage IIIA - in early '07 I had concurrent chemo (carboplatin & taxol) and radiation for 6 weeks, followed by VATS, followed by 2 bouts of pneumonia. My breathing remained strained until a bronchoscopy in Aug '07 which relieved it greatly . My energy and hope returned until a CT-PT scan in Dec '07 showed more lymph node involvement.
Now I am on Tarceva, an oral chemo targeted pill, for the past 2 months. I have weathered a few tough side effects, but am able to breath so much better now , and also cough much less . My stamina is returning and I am able to enjoy more things that I used to do. I do have to be careful not to overdo, because Fatigue will clobber me soundly. I am planting a spring garden (small), but am overjoyed to have some of my old life returned.
I am 73, living alone; doing lot of reading during my 'down' times. I lost 35 lbs in this whole process and am trying to regain some of it, and rebuild lost muscle. Walking is the best exercise, and most days I can walk 1/2 mile without stopping and with only a small increase in breathing - quite a change! I visit many cancer web sites and magazines and so grateful for the many new treatments that are available, and more to come. Stay positive and enjoy each and every day. If you feel rotten, close your eyes and recall those wonderful moments of the past! It works. Best wishes to you. STAYING STRONG is a very viable message! You may write to me if you wish.