Cancer Research UK main site

Lung Cancer

A.J.
Offline

Hi, all.

I had my lung cancer diagnosis last week and discussed the treatment options with the Cardiothoracic Consultant yesterday. 

It seems the tumour is small, but as I have interstitial lung disease (the lungs harden and become leathery) not suitable for keyhole surgery. So I'm looking at open surgery to remove the lower lobe of the left lung. I'm almost 75, so a big deal!

Definitely a mix of fear and hope, worried that I might not be able to recover to any kind of fitness and hopeful that I can. Determined to work on my fitness in this pre-op period to give myself the best chance I can. Any advice appreciated. A.J. 

  • Hi A.J. and welcome to the Cancer Chat community.

    I'm sorry to hear you were diagnosed with lung cancer last week, but I'm glad surgery is available to you.

    It's completely understandable to be feeling nervous about this, but I hope this information we have about what will happen before and after your surgery will help you feel a bit more at ease and prepared for what's to come.

    Hopefully some of our members who have had their lower lobe removed will share their experiences and advice with you soon but if you have any further questions or concerns you'd like to discuss with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all that they can to help.

    We're thinking of you A.J. and wishing you all the very best with your surgery when the time comes.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline

    Hello AJ,

    I'm 69 female and had my right lower lobe removed three months ago. It went very well and I'm almost as fit now as I was before the operation. I was able to have keyhole surgery but was prepared to have open, if necessary.

    Highly recommended when you consider the alternative!

    Agree that it's important to be as fit as possible prior to the operation as this will help your recovery. Also important to eat well before and after. And (just incase you're smoking) stop now!

    Anything you want to know, just ask. Happy to chat via private message.

    Best wishes Sharon 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.