Moname3D

Susan,
Since receiving the lung cancer diagnosis last summer, I have come to realize that no matter what I feel on the inside, it really is inside me. People do not look at me and see differences, because the scars are hidden. Sharing information with others who are dealing with difficult situations, and/or responding on these forums, has been extremely beneficial. I try to live my life with a smile on my face and recognize that there are many people in the world who need support because their situation is even more difficult than mine. When I go about my day, I can function in my "new normal" and feel quite well physically and emotionally. It's leading up to that next scan that the anxiety sets in..but as Tom said in his post, to stay the course is so important. I wish I knew what else to say. As KatieB said, we did not choose cancer, but once faced with it, we have to figure out how to beat it, stay strong, and move forward. I'm with you and your struggles!!!
 
Ro

Susan,
Unfortunately, I still get hit right between the eyes.  Case in point, I've had a nagging congested chest condition with a "dry patch" in my throat since mid May.  My GP ordered and ENT endoscope consult followed by an MRI.  So alarm bells are ringing in my head!  Recurrence, even after long periods of NED is common.  Living with the threat is partly finding one's new normal, but the threat is always hanging around my mind and effects my day to day life.  For example, I pay close attention to medical expense and medical evacuation benefits on the travel insurance policy I now purchase for every international vacation.  And, I still have that scanziety drill for my two scheduled oncology consultations a year.
Lung cancer really is part of my life.  It is ever present in my mind.  Sometimes, I am overwhelmed by its reality.  My only solutions is to....
Stay the course.
Tom