My First Post: Dealing with NSCLC and Treatment Challenges

Hi Francene, All of it is terrifying, and it's ok to feel that way. I had never shared my experience with anyone but my family. It took me a while to post here as well, but it has helped to read everyone's experiences and tough journey. Yes, a whole bunch of courageous women for sure!! Debilitating fatigue is an issue for some. Everyone is different. I truly thought I was just being lazy, me, the person who never stood still and was always on the go. The only thing that helped me with that was IV hydration, but they don't give you that all the time. I did ask for it every chance I could. Depression! Huh, let me tell you, it's real. Speak to a third party because sometimes you feel you can't speak to anyone about it. I have a supportive family, but I still felt they wouldn't understand. My mistake was not getting help. I just dealt with it on my own. It will be ok. I will be thinking and praying for you. 💕

Thank you so much for your kind, inspiring words…and prayers❣️Each day is a struggle. I’ve made a good choice coming here and finally saying it out loud. But still terrified. Made my eyes tear up just finding a your response. Thank you.

Hello Francene! It’s absolutely normal to be scared. When you’re told “you have cancer” your mind goes numb, your body goes into protective fight or flight mode. You hear a lot of words coming from the doctor but it is difficult to process through the emotions. For each and every one of us the journey is different but the same. We can all relate, to what others have experienced and are now experiencing. For myself after I left the doctors office and started rewinding (in my head) what he had said and began to process it, I also started to think about what is my role in my treatment and recovery? There is so much information out there it is easy for information overload. You have to find what works best for you. Staying positive and focused on yourself is priority, setting short term and longer term goals has helped me throughout the process. Nutrition and exercise have helped me tremendously. I’m glad I found this group and I hope that I can contribute something positive and helpful to others! Thank you for sharing and good luck to all of those that are here! “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win”

Thank you Richard, you did contribute something positive for me! Your words make a difference! Thanks

Francine its all scary N your body goes through alot stay prayed up and keep the faith i ask my Dr everything yes I fight depression also since I been dealing with the cancer Dx

Richard, You said it perfect! Your body goes into a protective fight or flight mode. When you write, "I also started to think about what my role is in my treatment and recovery." All of it is so hard. And you are correct, we have to take charge as well. Thank you, Richard!

Thank you Karen Day-Young. I almost didn’t respond just yet. Overwhelmed. And I just woke up. The physical way I feel plus humongous headache the second I opened my eyes…but even though, there’s something inside that makes me keep taking that next step. Words like yours and the others that have messaged me…gives my some shards of courage! AND…Im looking forward to my coffee this morning!!! lol! It’s the little things, huh?! Thanks

Karen Day-Young, One of my coping skills is making light of a tense moments. Which is what I was doing 20min ago when I responded back to you. Sorry if I seemed flippant. The sun is out and it’s beautiful outside. And the birds!!! Between 5am and 6am so many birds chirping and making beautiful noise! I will wade through this, and get a…2nd cup of coffee and settle into getting on with the day. Hope your day is as sweet as you!

I'm so sorry you're on the same trip I'm on. I try to stay busy but I'm also very new to surgery n treatment as well. It is scary and no amount of advise seems to help but crying it out and ALOT of prayers. I know how lonely cancer makes a person feel but it also helps when I hear from others their strength and encouragement and that's what we're all here for isn't it, to help each other. I'm so thankful we can come to a site like this and just get things off our chest. Prayers to all on this crazy train trip. Chung along

I’m so glad that you posted and can share your fears. The whole experience is terrifying and all one can do is put one foot in front of the other and share, question and make the best decision for you. Be patient with yourself and the healing. The fatigue lasts for a while and I hope that you can come out on the other side sooner rather than later.

Welcome to the community! Taking that first step to share can feel overwhelming, but reaching out shows incredible strength. The fatigue and emotional challenges that come with treatment are very real struggles that many community members understand and discuss here. Having these conversations with your doctor is exactly the right approach - they can often help adjust treatment plans or provide additional support options. This community is here to offer encouragement and understanding as you navigate this journey, and many members have found comfort in connecting with others who truly get what they're going through.