RuthieThomas Posted July 9, 2016 Posted July 9, 2016 Greetings! I just recently came across your website & have found it very therapeutic to read of other's journeys and stories of survival as well as learning of the challenges along the way. I was diagnosed in August 2015 with stage IIIb inoperable adenocarcinoma of the left lung, which had completely collapsed. I was treated with Carboplatin/Taxol while receiving 33 radiation treatments to which I had a positive response. Unfortunately, in March, it was found in my axillary lymph nodes, for which I had surgery and 27 more radiation treatments. Went for a routine CT scan in May, and found that my left lung had again collapsed. Of course, I was positive there was another big old tumor in there, but a bronchoscopy found a mucous plug and a little weird-looking area (probably from radiation) that a needle biopsy showed no evidence of disease. I'll have my next scan on Monday; hopefully this time I'll get good news and go back to normal surveillence. This cancer stuff is certainly a rollercoaster! I want to thank everyone who has shared their triumphs & tragedies, helpful advice, coping methods and very good advice about LIVING with cancer. One great positive that I totally did not expect was getting rid of my (fake) blonde hair...I loved being bald (I am a tad weird, I guess!) except for the loss of insulation during the winter! I'm now rocking a gray (I call it silver) mini-mohawk and may never have hair longer than an inch or so again...what a relief! No wonder you guys can get ready to go so much faster than us...I love skipping the blowdryer, curling iron, styling stuff, hairspray (I could go on, but I won't); what freedom! Thanks again to everyone who has shared; it has already helped me a lot & I'll continue to check in. Ruthie Quote
Tom Galli Posted July 9, 2016 Posted July 9, 2016 Ruthie, Have seen several of your posts and now note your introduction and I say - welcome! You've had a tough treatment time but from the sound of things, it was worth it. Great news on the needle biopsy results. A silver mini-mohawk hair style sounds interesting. Perhaps it will start a trend! Now you'll settle down to a period of scheduled scans to monitor your condition. Here is hoping they all reveal NED! Stay the course. Tom Quote
RuthieThomas Posted July 10, 2016 Author Posted July 10, 2016 Thank you, Tom. I must tell you that you are somewhat of a celebrity at our house...we have a 34-year-old daughter who, due to a brain injury, functions at about a 6 year old level. She was, understandably terrified by my diagnosis. Since finding this site, I keep telling her about you with close to the same diagnosis still thriving after 12 years. It has really gotten through to her & she asks about your regularly. This is one of those times that you have a great positive effect in people's lives that you aren't even aware of! I always enjoy reading your posts...keep up the good work! Tom Galli 1 Quote
LaurenH Posted July 11, 2016 Posted July 11, 2016 Hi Ruthie, Thank you for sharing your story--your post brought a big smile to my face! I'm happy to hear that LCSC has been such a positive part of your life. I am sorry that it has been quite a roller coaster for you, but you seem like an incredibly strong person and role model to your daughter. Stay in touch! Lauren -- Digital Community Manager LUNGevity Foundation RuthieThomas 1 Quote
RuthieThomas Posted July 13, 2016 Author Posted July 13, 2016 Hi Lauren, Appreciate your kind words. I will keep checking regularly; I always come away with something positive. I go to the oncologist tomorrow to find out the results of the CT scan I had done on Monday...hopefully my lung is back and no nasty surprises! So far, though, I am grateful that, even when the results haven't always been great, there has always been, so far, a way to treat the complication & get back on track. Again, thanks for the good thoughts...glad you guys are here! Ruthie LaurenH 1 Quote
Juliecroe Posted July 13, 2016 Posted July 13, 2016 Ruthie. As a newly diagnosed stage 4 just starting the process I find you inspirational. Love your spirit. Praying for you today. Julie Roe LaurenH and RuthieThomas 2 Quote
RuthieThomas Posted July 21, 2016 Author Posted July 21, 2016 Thanks so much, Julie! Praying for you as you begin your journey; I really believe you've been led to a good place here. I have found so much inspiration as well as information & practical advice. There seems to always to be someone who offers exactly what you may be needing at any particular moment. Ruthie Quote
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