As part of our World Cancer Day series, advocate and campaigner Jules Fielder shares how new lung cancer treatments have made life after diagnosis possible.
“That moment when I was told I had stage four lung cancer is still heartbreakingly clear. I was 38 and living a healthy lifestyle, so it wasn’t something I had ever thought about.
“You know, I remember thinking my life was over and that I would only have weeks to live. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
“14 months into my diagnosis and I am still here. I am living proof that there is life after a stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. That is because of new lung cancer treatments and a better understanding of the disease.
“I have EGFR-positive lung cancer and I take a targeted therapy called Osimertinib. One 40mg tablet a day, along with pain relief, and it is working. I call it my magic medicine because it has put my cancer to sleep and allows me to live my life.
“It is sad that it took a diagnosis like this to bring me here, but I am here now. I have also been lucky enough to go on some amazing holidays since my diagnosis, and I hope that continues. I want to see as much of the world as I can.
“It took time for me to reach this point and accept my diagnosis. I know that one day my treatment may stop working, but I take comfort in knowing there are other options available. New treatments are being developed and tested all the time.
“Learning about my condition and understanding my options has helped me feel more in control. At the beginning, everything felt overwhelming, but knowledge has given me strength.
“I also draw strength from my family and friends, and from Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. The charity has supported me in sharing my story, raising awareness and challenging misconceptions about lung cancer, especially in younger people.
“The website is a safe place to learn about your diagnosis and the treatments available. It also shares real stories from people living with lung cancer, which brings both reassurance and hope.
“That is why I continue to share my experience. I want people to see the reality, both the highs and the lows. There is hope. There is life after diagnosis.
“I want anyone newly diagnosed to know this is not the end. There are options, and there is still laughter and love. There is still a life to live.”