Hi, I'm Lulu from the UK, a mother of two. In the midst of COVID in 2021, my diagnosis of stage 2 lung cancer was confirmed.

I had a severe pain in my side. As COVID restrictions applied, I had difficulty arranging a GP appointment. I went directly to the A&E. A week later, I managed to persuade my doctor to refer me for an X-ray. After quite a long discussion, he agreed and that is how the follow-up began. Eventually, I was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer.

After what it took to get diagnosed, I felt optimistic, courageous, and hopeful about treating the cancer, moving forward.

My lifestyle didn’t change after being diagnosed with cancer.

I was recommended for a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy but at the start, I only opted for immunotherapy. I was very happy, relieved, motivated and hopeful at that point.

However, my initial treatment plan wasn't effective. Now, I’m currently on chemotherapy. After the initial optimism, I feel rather neutral after switching the treatment plan.

Unfortunately, I've experienced side effects like fatigue and nausea, which have been tough to manage.

Since the cancer diagnosis, I haven't made any lifestyle changes. Financially, heating costs have been a challenge.

Fortunately, my disease has not affected my relationship with my spouse and my children much. Looking ahead, I plan to have plenty of holidays and travel with my family.

My biggest dreams revolve around my granddaughters and ensuring health and happiness for my loved ones.

My biggest fear throughout this journey has been not being there to support my family. To overcome it, I've been spending plenty of time with them.

Today, years since I was first diagnosed, I still feel optimistic, courageous and hopeful.

To those on their own cancer journey, I'd say: "Stay positive and live a healthy lifestyle."