Genetic targeted therapy for lung cancer transformed my mother's life

In June 2020, Philomeena’s mum, Rita, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and she wondered how much time she had left. Now, in 2022, Philomeena shares the story of how she has cared for her beloved mother remotely, and how Rita is beating lung cancer.

My mum, Rita, is a surgeon on a cardiovascular team, living in India. She was diagnosed with non-small cell stage 4 lung cancer in June 2020. The primary tumour was in her left lung along with multiple other tumours, including bone. This diagnosis came as a huge shock. My dad fell silent, my sister was heartbroken, and I was devastated.

Straight after her diagnosis, my mum was put on a drug called Osimertinib (Tagrisso®) – this is a genetic targeted therapy. Targeted therapies selectively stop cancer cells from growing.

A few months later, a full body PET scan revealed the primary tumour had shrunk by 80%.

Nine months later, in April 2021, my mum had surgery to remove the primary tumour. This was followed by four cycles of chemotherapy and in October 2021, she was declared no evidence of disease (NED).

More surgery and radiotherapy

The relief was short lived - in April 2022, the bone tumour that had healed showed activity and a new tumour was seen involving the right adrenal gland. After much deliberation, she underwent adrenalectomy, surgery to remove her right adrenal gland, followed by radiotherapy to the bone tumour.

Throughout this, her genetic targeted therapy continued without a break. Despite these setbacks, my warrior mum has bounced back with increased vigour and has never really left her surgical team at work, except for brief spells.

Caring for my mum remotely

During the pandemic, I was fortunate to be by my mum’s side for a major part of her treatment. Since August 2021, I have been caring for her remotely from the UK.

I call my mum every single day on WhatsApp, mostly on my way back from work, no matter the time difference – we are three continents away! Every month I make sure that her medication is delivered on time. And as a scientist myself, I keep updated with on-going research and clinical trials with newer drugs for lung cancer treatment.

The enriching experience as a caregiver to my own mother has fortified me with the ability to support lung cancer patients and fellow caregivers on a global scale, when they face the unthinkable.

Never give up hope

Thankfully, my mum is back on schedule and on 18 June 2022, we passed two years since the diagnosis. She is doing fantastic now.

To bounce back every time has been so rewarding. Look how far we have come.

Sharing our experiences and being a Readers Panel Volunteer at Asthma + Lung UK, while engaging with a patient group on social media has greatly empowered me to support my mum. Being a part of the patient community has truly been worthwhile. I am massively grateful to the true warriors that they are.

Rita says, “I was walking on a cloud at the start of my story. Now, although I have come a long way, it seems only yesterday I had the chest X-ray taken. And here I am now waking up to the dawn of a brand-new day.”

Being diagnosed with lung cancer can be difficult. We have more information and support for people affected by lung cancer. We also have support for carers. You can also speak to our Helpline on 0300 222 5800 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). They can help you with any worries or concerns you may have.

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