Christie’s Story: Metastatic Lung Cancer Survivor
Posted: Wed Apr 08, 2026 5:55 am
I have two wonderful children. My daughter lives in Waverly and has three kids, and my son lives just half a mile away and also has two children. I am married to a wonderful husband, Troy. I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren. They come over and we do all sorts of fun activities. I have been very blessed with a supportive and loving family.
For about four months, I experienced back pain. I tried over-the-counter medications, chiropractic care, and physical therapy, but nothing helped. On December 28, 2018, I went to the doctor and found out I had lung cancer, and it had already metastasized to my bones, lymph nodes, brain, and liver.
My daughter and granddaughter took me to the appointment, where the doctor explained there was an abnormal growth and that we needed to find the primary source. On the way home, we stopped at my son’s house. He immediately understood that something was wrong. We all sat together, crying and hugging, processing the news. It was extremely difficult for them, and they feared I might only have a few months to live. I prayed, asking God to heal my body, and if not, to at least allow me to enjoy whatever time I had left.
My initial treatment began with a chemotherapy combination of two different drugs along with immunotherapy. During my care, my oncologist explained that I had been newly diagnosed with brain metastases and lung masses, confirming metastatic lung cancer. It was an emotionally overwhelming time, but I was also told that there were treatment options available and that the team would do everything possible to determine the best plan for me.
My doctor ordered next-generation sequencing and PD-L1 testing to look for mutations and biomarkers. The results showed a PD-L1 level of 100%, which meant I was a strong candidate for immunotherapy alone, without chemotherapy. This changed my treatment plan significantly.
I have now been on immunotherapy for almost two years. I have had no sickness and no side effects, and I am able to live a normal life. My doctor continues to monitor me with CT scans. The tumors in my lymph nodes are completely gone, the tumors in my lungs are gone, and the tumor in my right lung is shrinking. The only remaining activity is a small area in my bones.
The scans help us track progress and guide treatment decisions. My oncologist emphasized that molecular profiling is essential because it helps identify the most effective treatment. A broad panel, including next-generation sequencing, is important to fully understand the cancer’s characteristics.
Through this experience, I have learned not to lose hope. Molecular profiling has given me more hope than ever before. My doctors have consistently monitored my condition and adjusted treatment based on scan results, and fortunately, the cancer has responded well.
This experience has changed how I see life. I appreciate things more and no longer take anything for granted. I value every moment and every interaction. When I hug someone now, I feel their love more deeply. Living with the awareness that tomorrow is not guaranteed has completely changed my perspective.
Molecular profiling has been a true blessing in my treatment journey. I honestly believe I would not be where I am today without it.
For about four months, I experienced back pain. I tried over-the-counter medications, chiropractic care, and physical therapy, but nothing helped. On December 28, 2018, I went to the doctor and found out I had lung cancer, and it had already metastasized to my bones, lymph nodes, brain, and liver.
My daughter and granddaughter took me to the appointment, where the doctor explained there was an abnormal growth and that we needed to find the primary source. On the way home, we stopped at my son’s house. He immediately understood that something was wrong. We all sat together, crying and hugging, processing the news. It was extremely difficult for them, and they feared I might only have a few months to live. I prayed, asking God to heal my body, and if not, to at least allow me to enjoy whatever time I had left.
My initial treatment began with a chemotherapy combination of two different drugs along with immunotherapy. During my care, my oncologist explained that I had been newly diagnosed with brain metastases and lung masses, confirming metastatic lung cancer. It was an emotionally overwhelming time, but I was also told that there were treatment options available and that the team would do everything possible to determine the best plan for me.
My doctor ordered next-generation sequencing and PD-L1 testing to look for mutations and biomarkers. The results showed a PD-L1 level of 100%, which meant I was a strong candidate for immunotherapy alone, without chemotherapy. This changed my treatment plan significantly.
I have now been on immunotherapy for almost two years. I have had no sickness and no side effects, and I am able to live a normal life. My doctor continues to monitor me with CT scans. The tumors in my lymph nodes are completely gone, the tumors in my lungs are gone, and the tumor in my right lung is shrinking. The only remaining activity is a small area in my bones.
The scans help us track progress and guide treatment decisions. My oncologist emphasized that molecular profiling is essential because it helps identify the most effective treatment. A broad panel, including next-generation sequencing, is important to fully understand the cancer’s characteristics.
Through this experience, I have learned not to lose hope. Molecular profiling has given me more hope than ever before. My doctors have consistently monitored my condition and adjusted treatment based on scan results, and fortunately, the cancer has responded well.
This experience has changed how I see life. I appreciate things more and no longer take anything for granted. I value every moment and every interaction. When I hug someone now, I feel their love more deeply. Living with the awareness that tomorrow is not guaranteed has completely changed my perspective.
Molecular profiling has been a true blessing in my treatment journey. I honestly believe I would not be where I am today without it.