Hello everyone, I'm Mike, spousal caregiver, and principal cornerman (as in the boxing metaphor). I've checked out a few web groups, and I am very impressed with this site and its moderators, survivors/patients, and other caregivers. I'd like to begin by saying "thank you" for your contributions here.
My wife Kathy, age 50, received initial LC diagnosis on Aug 9, 2012, with subsequent dx of NSCLC adenocarcinoma, stage IV. She's had one chemo treatment (carboplatin and pemetrexed, with day-later Neulasta), with her second this week. She's strong and has no other health issues, and rebounded very well from the first chemo. Our faith keeps us both strong, and we have an extensive and amazing network of family and friends supporters. I'm only now venturing into the world of online support, cautiously and carefully reviewing bits and pieces of information. Some folks may want ALL the information they can find, but at this time Kathy prefers to stay offline, removed from the medical details, and focus on staying strong in mind and body. Right now, she lets me research the medical matters, and I am pleased to do so. We've been married for 29 years and I know my wife well enough to giver her manageable doses It's just the way she has always been, and sometimes I have a hard time convincing family and friends that she is okay without wanting to know the details or especially the prognoses. I am trying hard to be her bastion of confidence, and keep her away from any negative or hopeless thoughts, and I try hard to remain optimistic but realistic. Together we are slowly working our minds and spirits into learning to live with this cancer, and we are emotionally and spiritually in a good place, ready to deal with more hard stuff should it arrive.
Thanks for your contributions to this group, and thanks for listening to our story.