Treatment Delays and Changing Plans: Natasha's EGFR+ Journey

Natasha was initially misdiagnosed with tuberculosis before discovering her lung cancer

I'm Natasha, and I'm a teacher who loves being outdoors with my family and two dogs. I try to practice yoga two or three times a week as I find it helps regulate my central nervous system and I love the sense of peace it provides.

When I received my diagnosis in 2022, it was Stage III EGFR+ lung cancer. I had been experiencing a persistent cough, hoarseness, and fatigue. I was initially misdiagnosed as having tuberculosis. Originally, the plan was to administer chemotherapy first to shrink the tumour before having surgery. However, it was then realised that in order to access Osimertinib as an adjuvant therapy, NICE stipulates that chemotherapy should come after surgery. This delayed my treatment and by the time a date was planned for surgery, I had developed brain mets.

Despite these setbacks, I continue to focus on what brings me strength and peace. These activities help me maintain both my physical and mental wellbeing throughout my treatment journey.

"I love walking in the woods and taking regular exercise - I feel a sense of empowerment when exercising.”