Josie

Hi all. This forum has been so helpful but also poses very many questions for me. I’ve just been officially diagnosed with NSCLC Adenocarcinoma stage 111a. It is a primary neoplasm with no metastasis. I’m 47, live in the north of England and trying to come to terms with my future life path. So far it’s been a battle to get accurate information. I’ve been advised surgery is not an option. I believe this is because the tumour is big 6cm and in an awkward position. There are two enlarged lymph nodes I don’t know their stations. The physician who performed the biopsy believes the tumour is not as big as first thought. She believes the necrosis and dead tissue is masking the size. The middle lobe is collapsed and the tumour is in the bottom lobe nr the hilum. She suggested I push for surgery due to my good health, age and lung function.  I have not met an oncologist or medical team but advised I’d receive a combination of aggressive chemo and radiation. My tissues have been sent elsewhere for further testing. I’ve requested a meeting with the oncologist as I’m not overly happy at surgery being off the table - whilst I accept it may not be appropriate right now I feel it should be considered if they can reduce the tumour. I wonder am I being unrealistic. I’ve read so many studies of surgery being carried out successfully in 111a patients. The UK doesn’t have the best track record in pioneering treatments although we’re catching up. I suggested to the nurse that I might need a second option and this prompted the appointment with the oncologist this coming Tuesday.  I’m not shy and realise I have to advocate for myself and whilst we are very very lucky to have a national health service, it doesn’t always allow us the freedom to choose our treatment. Any guidance you wonderful folk can give me in readiness for my meeting, would be hugely appreciated. Many thanks Jo