Sloan

I am sorry you're feeling the fatigue. Are you taking steroids? It is common to take steroids while having radiation no matter where it is. And with some chemo drugs, steroids are also used. I see you were having PCI, is it completed, if yes, when? Fatigue can be a constant companion while receiving treatment. Rest when your body is telling you too. Keep up the fluids. Take care, Judy

Hi Sloan, I came to your page after seeing your question about fatigue. It sounds like you've had some treatment already. Is your cancer responding to the treatments?

I was diagnosed in 10/2012 with NSCLC. Like you, I had no symptoms, but I was diagnosed at stage IV. It was definitely a big surprise!!

My oncologist told my husband he expected I had about 4 months to live. If I hadn't been able to get into a clinical trial for Opdivo, an immunotherapy drug, I probably wouldn't have made a year. But, when I got into the trial, everything changed. I felt good again and my tumors were stopped in their tracks. I still have them ... I still have to have treatments every two weeks ... but we are co-existing nicely! We have a deal - they can stay where they are as long as they don't try to grow or spread!! (Joking)

Anyway, there's hope. Please know, there's hope. And, if your oncologist doesn't feel there's hope, too, then you might want to go to a different one.

Bless your kids. I'm glad you have loved ones there to go along this journey with you!

Also wanted to add, everyone is different concerning fatigue. Mine did last for several months after my chemo ended, I did not have radiation ( different cancer ). Can you work part time? Ease back into your job.? This if possible, would be a good compromise.

Sloan, many survivors make it through cancer treatment without anti anxiety medication, that is fine for them, but everyone is different. After receiving my initial diagnosis, I was a mess. I cried every time I started discussing my diagnosis. My gp took note of this and recommended an anti depressant. I was against this at first. I thought, I am just crying because, who wouldn't. With my husband's input, I relented. I went on a low dosage of anti depressant and was amazed at my change. No more faucet. I still thought in a clear organized manner, but my backbone and resolve were strengthened. I stayed on the medication throughout my treatment I hope the anti depressant and sleeping medication are working well for you. Just two more weapons in the arsenal to fight this xxx disease. Take care.

Welcome to the WhatNext family! The WhatNext family is made up of people like you who are looking for help or looking to help others. To help you along your journey the WhatNext family has put together a Beginner's Guide to Cancer that I highly recommend you check-out here: http://bit.ly/10BQKCi. Also, please do not hesitate to reach out to others or ask for help.

Wishing you the best.

David
Founder, WhatNexter