Pain Pain and More Pain

I’m 62 from Philadelphia, living in South Jersey. In 2012, I was diagnosed with NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer). Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer. Stats show the incidences of lung cancer have risen in younger people with no history of smoking at or below the age of 50.

Medical trauma

I was 49 when I had the upper left lobe of my lung removed at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. I’ve had radiation treatments, and when diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in 2019, I was given an oral medication targeting the mutation that was found during a biopsy.

Prior to my lung cancer diagnosis at the age of 35, I was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr Virus, which led to years of chronic pain and specialist visits. At the time I was also diagnosed with Osteoarthritis, Scoliosis, and Fibromyalgia. I was working as a cardiac care nurse in Louisville Kentucky where I lived with my 4 children. I have 10 grandkids ages 17 to 4 years old. I’m a very active parent and grandparent, my kids call me Mom Mom as I called my grandparents Mom Mom and Pop Pop.

Navigating my depression

I struggle with depression and severe anxiety as well as PTSD trauma. I’ve had multiple surgeries, replacements of both hips, hand & both feet reconstructed. I’ve had a stroke with some minor deficits. I do PT and warm water therapy. How do I deal with the depression and anxiety? I’m on medication and see a psychotherapist regularly! I volunteer as a phone support buddy for newly diagnosed lung cancer patients. I’m very grateful to be able to wake up and put my feet on the floor and stand up.

Each step I take is slow and gradually increases as my body allows. A combination of relaxation and exercise have been very helpful, yet I’m on disability due to the debilitating effects of the pain from all of the illnesses.