Jamie was put on a targeted therapy (called Alectinib) and his cancer tumours and nodes began to reduce. Three years later he is still seeing further reductions or stable scans.
But it's not all been plain sailing. Jamie adds, "I did have some progression in my brain nine months after I was diagnosed - that was treated with SRS (or stereotactic radiosurgery)."
Day-to-day it's relatively normal for Jamie, although he admits he feels more tired than he used to.
"I find it's best to push through the fatigue. I work in IT, and I'm lucky that I am still able to work full time from home. This allows me to have as much time as possible with my wife and son who are my whole world"
Cancer has impacted Jamie's life in many ways. He has met some truly inspiring people from all over the world in our ALK-positive cancer community and it has also made him appreciate every single day. "It's such a cliche I know, but seeing what others go through helps you to keep going and get through the day."
Jamie's advice to anyone newly diagnosed is don't give up; there is always hope. "When I look back now at when I was first diagnosed I was so sick, but I got through it thanks to the people around me and the doctors and nurses that didn't give up on me."
Jamie is co-founder of ALK+ International. He highlights the charity was created with the sole purpose to extend the life expectancies of all patients with ALK+ cancer. "We fundraise for research, provide grants, advocate and educate. I am lucky to be part of a team that is committed and invested into making a difference to the ALK+ community - not only for those that have ALK+ lung cancer, but those with any form of ALK+ cancer."
Originally posted April 2022.
