From Diagnosis to Advocacy: My Journey with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
I am DeMarie Rossi—some folks call me DeDe. I’m 68 years old, and I was diagnosed with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in October 2023. I’ve just completed 18 months of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, along with surgery to remove the upper lobe of my right lung.
When I was diagnosed with lung cancer, I immediately felt ashamed. I constantly felt the need to explain that I had non-smoker’s lung cancer. I soon realized that many of my friends with lung cancer dealt with a similar stigma—a feeling of guilt, often referred to as “smoker’s guilt.” It’s the feeling that people believe you brought this upon yourself, which leads many to suffer in silence. The truth is no one ever deserves cancer.
A Quiet Threat: Why We Need Early Screening for Everyone
A 2024 study revealed that non-smokers aren’t considered at high risk for lung cancer, and therefore, they aren’t screened. I’m now advocating for early screening for everyone. Lung cancer—especially non-small cell lung cancer—often grows quietly, making early intervention crucial. The sooner it’s found, the more treatment options become available. As of a few weeks ago, I was deemed NED—No Evidence of Disease. I’ll need scans every three months due to a mutation and a few suspicious areas, but I am here, and I’m THRIVING.
Finding My Tribe: The Lifesaving Support of ThriveWell Cancer Foundation
In the middle of my treatment, I found myself incredibly lonely. One night, I desperately searched for cancer support groups online. While my son and daughter-in-law offer amazing support, I craved connections with other survivors—warriors who would truly understand my grief, anger, and fear.
I was blessed to find ThriveWell Cancer Foundation. I called the next morning, went for my first appointment with Joseé Battle, Program Director at ThriveWell and was welcomed with open arms into the Diva Program.
I am certain that the Diva and Dude group support from ThriveWell is what got me this far. I had two scares that landed me in the hospital, and I know that if I hadn’t been given the gift of being part of ThriveWell, I wouldn’t have rallied as well as I did. Just knowing I can text a Diva (thank you, Ruthe!) and not feel alone is so precious to me. The counseling, nutrition, exercise, somatic healing, and healing arts programs offered by ThriveWell have given me so much encouragement and helped me through many dark nights.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=8gFZAstKCgA%3Fsi%3DrEIGNOA5f3INURon