By Poly Gaitani, Survivor of Stage IV
My experience with cancer starts many years ago, in 2008 – it was about breast cancer – which was then successfully treated. After surgery and treatments I went through the cure. After passing many years, in April 2020, I was diagnosed with lung cancer, adenocarcinoma , of stage IV. I should add that I am a non-smoker. The doctor initially did not give me much hope. But I went ahead with the HOPE I had in me. After the initial shock, I found the determination to move forward and do everything I could to help my body heal itself. After my doctor’s recommendation to proceed with biomarker testing, I tested positive for the ROS1 mutation. This immediately means that the way was open for personalized treatment and a better perspective on the disease’s management. At this point, I would like to highlight the importance of molecular testing after the initial diagnosis, as soon as possible, so that the patient can rapidly receive the best possible treatment for the disease. Biomarkers help doctors to understand which is the most appropriate treatment for each patient. Unfortunately, in our country, not all biomarkers are yet reimbursed – the ROS1 mutation is not reimbursed – and this further reinforces health inequalities, as it can exclude a patient from reaching a cure with the right drug. These inequalities are targeted, among others, by the FairLife L.C.C. organisation, with whom I was blessed to be in contact and receive considerable help, information and support.
In particular, the BREATH Psychosocial Support Program is a promising program that enables patients, caregivers and family members to share thoughts, feelings, fears and anxieties and get the right advice to deal with the daily challenges of lung cancer. And there are more than a few. Uncertainty about the future, the stigma around smoking-related disease, physical and psychological fluctuations.
You meet many people’s stories, you hear their experiences and this becomes your guide for even more targeted actions. I find the help of the organisation invaluable, because they are always ahead and always alert. It is developing by keeping up with the facts. In conclusion, I want to say that I want to live and that I love life.
Psychological support is the Alpha and Omega for those involved with the disease, especially those who are recently diagnosed. Because in this way, a person can be emotionally healed and take the time needed to make the right decisions about their life. With an easy laugh, a great sense of humor and an even greater spirit, you can live a better life. I started traveling more and taking time for myself by prioritizing my own needs…. cancer for me is about not resting and doing constant and thorough checkups. I have a wonderful family and many wonderful friends, and we continue to laugh and hope for the best. I love using my energy, my voice and my insight to contribute to anyone and everyone diagnosed with lung cancer.
Together we can accomplish anything!
