Facing Forward: Alisa

Facing Forward is a series that shares the lives of people living with arthritis and other invisible chronic illnesses. The goal of the series is to see how we are similar and how we are different - and to remind us to keep moving forward because we aren't alone!

Name: Alisa

Location: New York, NY

Diagnosis: Stage 3a Non-Small Cell Adenocarcinoma

Age at Diagnosis: 43

How are you currently treating your condition?

Currently I am on Integrative Treatment:  herbs, supplements, TCM (chinese mushrooms).

What are the biggest challenges you have faced since your diagnosis?

Anxiety, the fear of a recurrence/new primary before my sons are more independent.

What are your favorite tips and tricks for managing everyday tasks?

I count my blessings and am grateful for each day.  I enjoy family and friends and experiences.

How do you manage to keep facing forward every day?

(See answer above)

If you could go back to diagnosis day and tell your past self one thing, what would it be?

To live for each day and do not worry about tomorrow, you are alive now and will be alive 17 years later and counting!

Do you have a blog you would like to share?

The only blog I have is the introduction of myself for lungcancer.net, it is on their website and facebook page.

Would you like to be featured on Facing Forward? If so, please send an email to mariah@fromthispointforward.com.