Gary has been living with ALK+ lung cancer since 2022

I was diagnosed with melanoma and stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer within months of each other

I’m Gary, and I was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK-positive lung cancer in 2022 - just months after being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer. My symptoms began in June 2021 with mild fatigue and discomfort in my left side. Despite several GP visits and raised blood markers, I was repeatedly told it was likely stomach-related. It wasn’t until my melanoma diagnosis that an X-ray finally revealed the lung cancer.

The start of treatment was tough. The medication hit my liver hard, and I was struggling both physically and mentally. But after moving to a reduced dose, things slowly began to balance out. More than three years on, I’ve come full circle.

Together with my wife Sharon and our two little Shih Tzus, I’ve learned not just to live with ALK-positive lung cancer, but it’s turned our lives around in a surprisingly positive and productive way.

A big part of that change has come from educating myself about the food I eat, finding joy in fitness, and walking in nature. Sharon and I travel whenever we can with our two little Shih Tzus, Evie and our new addition, Archie.

I’ve also been involved in online research projects, questionnaires, and advocacy work to help newly diagnosed people with ALK+ lung cancer. I’ve attended the annual ALK conference and, best of all, met my amazing ALK family at our get-togethers.

Recently, I was proud and humbled to be nominated to attend the King’s Garden Party in recognition of my 17 years working at the University of Reading.

"There's a community of people who truly understand - you'll find comfort, advice, and strength in connecting with others living with ALK+." - Gary