How I Learned I had Stage 4 Lung Cancer - Anne | The Patient Story
Posted: Wed Apr 08, 2026 4:50 am
My name is Anne Laporte. I am a nurse and have been working in the field for about 35 years. I have a 29-year-old daughter whom I love spending time with, and I am the fourth of six children in a close-knit Italian family from New York. I have always been very active. I have completed marathons and triathlons, and I have cycled 50 miles a day for several consecutive days across Europe. Traveling by bike has always been meaningful because it allows a closer connection to nature.
In 2009, a screening detected a single pulmonary nodule. It was monitored for three years, and I was told it was not cancer, especially since I was a lifelong non-smoker. Still, as an endurance athlete, I remained aware of changes in my body. After a period of time, I relocated to California and continued working. I began experiencing back pain that progressively worsened. I consulted multiple physicians over several months before an MRI was finally performed.
Initially, I believed the pain was related to physical activity or a sports injury, as I was still biking, running, and swimming regularly. However, the MRI revealed advanced metastatic cancer throughout my spine. This diagnosis came after months of symptoms and repeated medical visits. During an earlier emergency room visit, I had requested further imaging, including a chest X-ray, but my concerns were not fully addressed. I also noticed abnormalities in my blood work and questioned them, but I was reassured there was no issue.
Eventually, after further evaluation, I was diagnosed with stage IVB non-small cell lung cancer. The primary tumor in my right upper lung lobe measured about 1.4 cm, but the cancer had already spread extensively to my spine, liver, and lymph nodes. Despite the relatively small tumor size, the disease had progressed significantly.
This experience highlighted gaps in awareness and application of current lung cancer research. I had expressed concerns about lung cancer, noting that non-smoking women are among the fastest-growing groups affected, but this was not initially considered.
A key part of my diagnosis involved next-generation sequencing (NGS), which identifies specific genetic mutations in cancer. This can be done through tissue biopsy or liquid biopsy, which is a blood test. In my case, a liquid biopsy detected a high level of the EGFR mutation along with other mutations. This information was critical because it guided treatment decisions. Traditional chemotherapy is often less effective for certain mutations, while targeted therapies can be more effective and less toxic.
Targeted therapy became the foundation of my treatment. I began treatment in September 2020 with a targeted medication along with palliative radiation to address pain. Within about two months, I experienced significant improvement and was able to return to activities such as skiing, running, and cycling. Maintaining quality of life during treatment became a major focus.
These newer therapies differ significantly from traditional chemotherapy. Based on my experience as a nurse and as a parent of a child who underwent cancer treatment, I have seen the severe side effects associated with older treatments. In contrast, targeted therapies allowed me to remain active, although they do come with side effects such as skin rashes and gastrointestinal issues. These were managed with medications, hydration, and consistent skin care routines.
Over time, as expected with targeted therapies, the cancer developed resistance and began to progress again after several months. Follow-up scans showed activity in the lung and additional areas in the spine. At that point, further treatment options were considered, including clinical trials.
Clinical trials play a critical role in advancing lung cancer treatment. I enrolled in a trial involving a combination of therapies targeting the same mutation. This included weekly infusions and oral medication. Early results showed a reduction in tumor burden, and I experienced relief from bone pain, which had previously been significant. Pain levels decreased from moderate or severe to minimal, which was a meaningful improvement.
Managing treatment involves regular monitoring, lab work, and adjusting medications as needed. Some treatments, such as monoclonal antibody infusions, can cause initial reactions, but these are managed with supportive medications. Over time, tolerance to treatment can improve.
Living with advanced cancer requires ongoing adaptation. Quality of life is a personal measure. For me, it includes spending time with family, staying as active as possible, and continuing to engage in meaningful activities. Even small improvements, such as having more energy during the day, are significant.
This experience reinforces the importance of research and early detection. Some cancers, including lung, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers, still require further advancements in treatment. Continued research and clinical trials are essential to improving outcomes.
Cancer profoundly changes perspective. It emphasizes the importance of time, relationships, and meaningful experiences. Support systems, including advocacy groups and patient communities, are valuable resources. These organizations provide education, guidance, and emotional support, often based on shared experiences.
Ultimately, it is important to stay informed, seek appropriate testing such as genetic profiling, and consider all available treatment options. Advocacy, awareness, and research continue to play a vital role in improving care and outcomes for patients.
In 2009, a screening detected a single pulmonary nodule. It was monitored for three years, and I was told it was not cancer, especially since I was a lifelong non-smoker. Still, as an endurance athlete, I remained aware of changes in my body. After a period of time, I relocated to California and continued working. I began experiencing back pain that progressively worsened. I consulted multiple physicians over several months before an MRI was finally performed.
Initially, I believed the pain was related to physical activity or a sports injury, as I was still biking, running, and swimming regularly. However, the MRI revealed advanced metastatic cancer throughout my spine. This diagnosis came after months of symptoms and repeated medical visits. During an earlier emergency room visit, I had requested further imaging, including a chest X-ray, but my concerns were not fully addressed. I also noticed abnormalities in my blood work and questioned them, but I was reassured there was no issue.
Eventually, after further evaluation, I was diagnosed with stage IVB non-small cell lung cancer. The primary tumor in my right upper lung lobe measured about 1.4 cm, but the cancer had already spread extensively to my spine, liver, and lymph nodes. Despite the relatively small tumor size, the disease had progressed significantly.
This experience highlighted gaps in awareness and application of current lung cancer research. I had expressed concerns about lung cancer, noting that non-smoking women are among the fastest-growing groups affected, but this was not initially considered.
A key part of my diagnosis involved next-generation sequencing (NGS), which identifies specific genetic mutations in cancer. This can be done through tissue biopsy or liquid biopsy, which is a blood test. In my case, a liquid biopsy detected a high level of the EGFR mutation along with other mutations. This information was critical because it guided treatment decisions. Traditional chemotherapy is often less effective for certain mutations, while targeted therapies can be more effective and less toxic.
Targeted therapy became the foundation of my treatment. I began treatment in September 2020 with a targeted medication along with palliative radiation to address pain. Within about two months, I experienced significant improvement and was able to return to activities such as skiing, running, and cycling. Maintaining quality of life during treatment became a major focus.
These newer therapies differ significantly from traditional chemotherapy. Based on my experience as a nurse and as a parent of a child who underwent cancer treatment, I have seen the severe side effects associated with older treatments. In contrast, targeted therapies allowed me to remain active, although they do come with side effects such as skin rashes and gastrointestinal issues. These were managed with medications, hydration, and consistent skin care routines.
Over time, as expected with targeted therapies, the cancer developed resistance and began to progress again after several months. Follow-up scans showed activity in the lung and additional areas in the spine. At that point, further treatment options were considered, including clinical trials.
Clinical trials play a critical role in advancing lung cancer treatment. I enrolled in a trial involving a combination of therapies targeting the same mutation. This included weekly infusions and oral medication. Early results showed a reduction in tumor burden, and I experienced relief from bone pain, which had previously been significant. Pain levels decreased from moderate or severe to minimal, which was a meaningful improvement.
Managing treatment involves regular monitoring, lab work, and adjusting medications as needed. Some treatments, such as monoclonal antibody infusions, can cause initial reactions, but these are managed with supportive medications. Over time, tolerance to treatment can improve.
Living with advanced cancer requires ongoing adaptation. Quality of life is a personal measure. For me, it includes spending time with family, staying as active as possible, and continuing to engage in meaningful activities. Even small improvements, such as having more energy during the day, are significant.
This experience reinforces the importance of research and early detection. Some cancers, including lung, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers, still require further advancements in treatment. Continued research and clinical trials are essential to improving outcomes.
Cancer profoundly changes perspective. It emphasizes the importance of time, relationships, and meaningful experiences. Support systems, including advocacy groups and patient communities, are valuable resources. These organizations provide education, guidance, and emotional support, often based on shared experiences.
Ultimately, it is important to stay informed, seek appropriate testing such as genetic profiling, and consider all available treatment options. Advocacy, awareness, and research continue to play a vital role in improving care and outcomes for patients.