Introduction

[Lydia V]

Hello to all fellow members. I was diagnosed with stage lV nsclc September of 2015. Initially the prognosis was very bleak. After 3 months of traditional chemotherapy I was found to be a candidate for targeted chemotherapy with the EGFR mutation. I was on Afatanib for 9 months before the T790M mutation showed up. I then started Tagrisso but had to quit after developing a rash that progressed to severe abscesses over about 70% of my body even though I was on Minocycline. After 10 days of IV cephalosporin followed by 2 weeks of oral I’m finally back on Tagrisso (at a lower dose) while remaining on the oral antibiotic. I am maintaining hopefulness. I have had good results with the treatment, I just have to avoid side effects!

[Donna G]

Welcome Lydia.  Glad you found us.  Also glad they seam to have got you on a great dose and med to keep things under control !

As it is actually minus 20 degrees outside my door this morning in Minnesota.  May I say please keep warm !  As you are just in the next state

I bet it is pretty cold there also. 

I think you better eat yogurt every day if your on antibiotics all the time.  Your bowels need " healthy" germs to help your body absorb nutrients.

Please keep us posted on how you are doing.  I would love to hear some good news.

 

Donna G

[LaurenH]

Hi, Lydia,

Welcome to LCSC! I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but I'm glad that you've joined this online support community. This is a great place to connect with people like Donna, who can share experience, advice, and encouragement. Please feel free to join in conversations or start your own topics in the discussion boards. There are also member blogs, photo galleries, and a calendar of lung cancer events.

Here is a page on LUNGevity's website with tips for managing side effects: https://www.lungevity.org/support-survivorship/survivor-resource-center/living-well-with-lung-cancer/managing-treatment-side. I'd also suggest making a post to ask specific questions about side effects that are affecting you. Many of our members may have experienced similar side effects and can share what strategies worked best for them.

Please let me know if there are any specific resources/support that you need and I will be happy to help!

With gratitude,

Lauren
--
Digital Community Manager
LUNGevity Foundation