Name: Barbara

Age: 58

Neuroendocrine Cancer Site: Lung

Barbara’s story:

November 2019 I was offered a lung screening as part of a so called SUMMIT study at UCL hospital in London. I used to be a smoker and I thought “why not?”. I was feeling very well and very fit. I was certain that all was ok. The day after the CT scan I received a phone call informing me that they had found something in my left lung and that they had referred me to my local hospital, the Royal Free in North London.

I remember thinking that most probably it was nothing to worry about. I was wrong. After several tests and biopsies, I was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer. I was referred to a lung surgeon who told me that because of its position, surgery was possible but very difficult. I decided against it.

After a long discussion with my consultant and oncologist, I was prescribed Everolimus, one tablet a day. I have been taking the drug for more than a year now. I seem to tolerate it well. Because I have never had any symptoms, family and friends find it difficult to understand that I have cancer. My life has not changed that much: I still keep fit and busy. I have actually bought myself a road bike and I have started cycling everywhere. Even I sometimes can’t believe I have cancer.

Both my parents died of it and my sister has just recovered from breast cancer. I looked after them during their treatments and having seen what they went through, I consider myself lucky. I have two beautiful grandchildren and a third on on the way. I have a wonderful husband who supports me. So far all is going well and I am determined to make the most of my life.

I am training very hard at present. I have registered for the London to Brighton cycle ride taking place on 19 September this year and I am raising money for the NCUK. If you want to donate, here is the link.

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/barbara-mansi?utm_term=QB3eRbP4D

Do you have any useful hints and tips that you would like to share?

What helps me is talking to my family and friends.

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