Sylvie’s update: living with the side effects of stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer treatment
Sylvie first shared her story with us in 2025. She’s a mum of three who has never smoked. For months her back pain and breathlessness were put down to sciatica, and she was sent home from A&E several times without a scan, even though she kept telling doctors something was wrong. In November 2023 she was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer, which had spread to her bones, spine, lymph nodes and liver.
Nearly three years on, she’s still on treatment and doing well, but the side effects are tough.
“I try to celebrate each day as it comes and witnessing and sharing my children’s achievements warms my heart.”
“I am doing very well and my treatment continues even though I am struggling with the side effects. Not sure I will ever get used to taking medications daily and dealing with this chronic illness.”
Sylvie is honest that the hardest part isn’t only physical. The cancer affects her mobility, and it has taken a toll on her mental health.
“I am struggling with what I consider a life sentence with this illness.”
What helps is having her family close by. She knows not everyone has that.
“I am the lucky few that have family around and always available to help me on a daily basis.”
She takes each day as it comes, and her children are what keep her going. She still loves to travel, too.
“I try to celebrate each day as it comes and witnessing and sharing my children’s achievements warms my heart. I love travelling and have lots of countries yet to visit.”