My mothere was diagnosed with NSCL stage IV in February. We had a real rough go of it but she has finally recovered from her radiation and has slowly been able to come off all of her drugs including steroids. She is now only taking Tarceva - which has done quite well for her. She is also walking around 3 to 4 miles a day now as well.
My mother's appetite is still very poor but every day we all make sure she at the very least drinks a nutirion packed smoothie that my father makes for her. She hates them but I believe they have really helped keep the protien going into her and helped her strength.
I hope your insurance approves Tarceva - most do. Let me know if I can answer anything else. My thoughts are with you and your mom.