Polly’s lung cancer diagnosis was devastating, but it’s made her re-evaluate what’s important

Polly discovered her stage 4 lung cancer through a persistent cough and shortness of breath

I'm Polly, and I'm 64 years old. I'm a former bed and breakfast host who now spends time gardening, knitting, looking after our menagerie of chickens and ducks and drinking coffee. I also volunteer in our local hospice shop and enjoy holidays in our caravan.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 EGFR+ lung cancer in 2021. I’d been struggling with a persistent cough and shortness of breath.

Following diagnosis I retired which gives me time to take care of myself well. Hobbies and time with family and friends mean a lot to me and help me to keep up my cheerful outlook and positivity. I'm always appreciating nature, wildlife and the simple things in life.

I couldn't have got through the last few years without my amazing family, friends and the EGFR+ UK support group. Some of the people that I've met through EGFR+ have become good friends, supporting each other through our cancer journeys.

My diagnosis was devastating, but it’s made me re-evaluate life and what’s really important.

“Hobbies and time with family and friends means a lot to me and helps me to keep up my cheerful outlook and positivity. I'm always appreciating nature, wildlife and the simple things in life.” - Polly