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LUNG FORCE Heroes
Nellie S.
Before cancer, doctors were not a thought for me. I was considered a very healthy and active woman. But lung cancer doesn't discriminate against, nonsmokers, age or gender.
Without any warning, except for a small swollen area on my neck, I was diagnosed with metastatic stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. At a young age, 44, my life went a drastic change. After aggressive chemo and radiation we were able to shrink all visible tumors and remain on continuous chemo until I become resistant to this treatment. For that, regular scans are done.
The good news is that with the progression of cancer treatments today, I stand a fighting chance with other options to use later. In the first year I have learned a tremendous amount in types and specialties of medicine. Because cancer is not just one disease, it's many that are not assumed. I stumbled onto LUNG FORCE while looking for a support group which is held monthly at their Orlando location thru the ALA.
Having cancer is a forever changing process. Lung cancer is the #1 killer of women. My specific type, NSLC adenocarcinoma, now affects young female nonsmokers as well. Through LUNG FORCE I will be able to advocate for and help educate others about this.
First published: October 23, 2017
American Lung Association is solely responsible for content.
Hero stories are the point of view of the Hero and not necessarily the American Lung Association. The Lung Association does not endorse any specific provider, facility or treatment.
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