Hi everyone, my dad has non small cell lung cancer EGFR. He has been on Osimertinib for the past year however recent scans show a new mutation which has unfortunately caused Osimertinib to not be as effective. The oncologist is suggesting dad moves to chemotherapy - Paclitaxel and Carboplatin and immunotherapy (Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab). This is a hard decision as we know chemotherapy has many side effects. Has anyone been through this treatment and can share their real experiences? What should my dad expect? What are the cycles like? Can he continue working? He works in the airport and is on his feet a lot. Would really appreciate some guidance and advice so we're prepared and dad can be looked after in the best way.
Thank you in advance for support.
Hello sarah123,
A warm welcome to the community, although I'm very sorry you've found the need to join.
I had chemotherapy 11 years ago, this was cisplatin and vinorelbine but no immunotherapy because it wasn't available back then.
Chemo affects people in different ways but it's normal for the first cycles to be relatively easily tolerated then side effects tend to build as the cycles progress. Your dad will be given details of side effects and what to be aware of and there will be a helpline to call if needed so any issues can be dealt with immediately. It's important to use this quickly so any problems can be nipped in the bud.
As far as continuing to work I think it depends on things such as your Dad's age, fitness, physical reaction to chemo and how physically demanding his job is, but it's not unusual to need some time off during treatment and recovery.
Macmillan has produced some information which might be useful and the link to this is below.I hope all goes well and if you have any specific questions just ask and I'll do my best to answer them.
Derek.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
