When Josephine Schuil-Brewer was diagnosed with lung cancer, she expected to hear she had only months to live. But thanks to immediate intervention, Jo is now cancer-free. She shares her story to help others facing a similar diagnosis.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
“I noticed a dry cough that lasted several weeks in July 2024, so I contacted my GP. They immediately arranged a chest X-ray. Within three days, the results showed something concerning. I then had another X-ray, followed by a CT scan, and finally saw a respiratory specialist.
“At that point, I guessed I had lung cancer and felt distinctly fatalistic. My daughter is an Anglican priest, and I knew a woman in her congregation with incurable lung cancer. I assumed that would be my fate.”
Surgery and Recovery
“When I saw the respiratory consultant, I expected to hear I only had months to live. Imagine my surprise and relief when he said they could surgically remove my tumour.
“I had my operation on 9th September. I spent six days in hospital and felt weak and washed out afterwards. Gradually, I recovered, with incredible support from my daughter, who looked after me very well.”
Chemotherapy
“Although the surgery was successful, the surgeon recommended a course of chemotherapy because the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes between the endoscopy and surgery.
“I started 12 weeks of chemotherapy in November. The schedule was two weeks of treatment followed by a week off. Side effects hit hardest during treatment: nausea, an ulcerated mouth, constipation, headaches, and extreme fatigue caused by steroids in the anti-nausea medication. Sleeping tablets eventually helped.
“Chemotherapy was the toughest part of my journey. You have to endure the bad weeks and focus on the days you feel a bit better. About four weeks after finishing treatment, I finally felt human again.”
Life After Treatment
“Quality of life matters. I am overjoyed to be clear of cancer. Currently, I deal with severe back pain from collapsed lower discs, unrelated to lung cancer. It took 10 months to see a specialist and another three months for an injection, which has helped significantly. I’m hoping it lasts — the doctors said it might work for a week, a month, or longer. I’m keeping my fingers crossed!”
“Despite this discomfort, I am so grateful my lung cancer was caught quickly. Once I contacted my GP, everything moved fast, even if it sometimes felt slow. I hope my story offers hope to others receiving a diagnosis.
“Lung cancer doesn’t automatically mean the end of the world. My experience shows that it is possible to get through it.”