After a series of examinations, she learned the diagnosis – lung cancer. It was a shock for her, because she never smoked and lived a healthy life. “At first I asked why me, but then I started to believe that I could do it. I was lucky that the doctors discovered the tumor at a stage where it could be surgically removed,” describes Ilona.
She lost part of a lung
She therefore underwent an operation in autumn 2021, when the part of her lung where the tumor was located was removed. Now Ilona is in remission for the third year, she has regular check-ups with a pulmonologist and an oncologist. Twice a year he undergoes control CT of the lungs and once a year spirometry.
“Now I feel great physically and mentally. The only moment when my body reminds me that I underwent the procedure is shortness of breath during physical exertion, sports or walking up the stairs faster.” adds Ilona. “But that forces me to keep working on myself, to move regularly, and to practice breathing.”
Relaxation and less stress
As she says herself, after the illness she is calmer, more humble, able to stop and enjoy the little things of every day. “I have significantly reduced my work. I avoid stressful situations, I don’t take on too many tasks like before, I don’t try to get everything done. I try to stick to the motto ‘everything in moderation’.” Her support was mainly her partner, friends and family.
“My partner accompanied me to the examination, he was with me when I woke up from anesthesia after surgery. He supports me in a new project of a non-profit organization. I am extremely grateful to him for that. Thanks to him, I managed everything well mentally and I continue to manage it,” reports Ilona.
Based on personal experience, Ilona became more interested in lung cancer. Last fall, she founded the patient organization Moje plíce, zs together with 2 other patients. All 3 are lifelong non-smokers.
„Today I know that this is not such an exception again, unfortunately the number of patients with lung cancer among non-smokers is increasing, even among younger people. We went through the disease ourselves, and that’s why we decided to transform our difficult life experience into something positive.” says Ilona.
My lungs are helping
The patient organization Moje plíce, zs. was established with the aim of providing support to patients with lung cancer and their families in the most difficult moments of their lives. Its mission is to stand by their side and fight for better conditions and care for all affected by this serious disease.
The association also launched a new campaign “Step into it”, which wants to motivate the public to exercise regularly as a means of preventing not only cancer, but also strengthening lung capacity. In November, the organization will repeat the »Don’t cough on it« campaign, which aims to make the Lung Cancer Early Detection Program more visible, more at www.prevenceproplice.cz.
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Autor: Profimedia