Lung cancer survivor taking control of my health.

LSamara
LSamara Posts: 14 Member
in Introduce Yourself
Hi, everyone. I've been on the fitness wagon since May 30th, 2014. I landed in the hospital in October 2013 with a collapsed lung. Tests soon revealed I had lung cancer and after 3 collapsed lungs they scheduled me to have my lower left lung removed. I began chemotherapy in January 2014 and was given steroids to help ease the pain from the chemo treatments. I had my last treatment on March 6th and at that point I was so weak I could barely push myself up from a reclining position on the sofa. Also, the steroids resulted in me gaining nearly 50lbs. I had never been concerned about my health. I smoked cigarettes for 29 years, quitting only two weeks before my cancer diagnosis. I often joked about being allergic to manual labor, exercise and health food. Oh yes, I was a self professed junk food junky (and still struggle with my food choices). I began going to the gym last summer, meeting with dieticians and working with a trainer at the gym. I began going 3 days per week and could barely push out 15 minutes at level one on the recumbent bike. I now go to the gym 2 and half hours a day, 5 days each week. I lift weights for an hour and do an hour and a half of cardio. I have lost inches, though not much weight (I'm told I'm replacing fat with muscle, but still can't fit into my pre-cancer jeans). I now get on the recumbent bike and do 15 minutes at level 6 and another 45 minutes at level 4. While I get discouraged at the scale's inability to move, I do feel much stronger and healthier than I did before ever getting sick :) I look forward to making new friends and encouraging one another on our journey to good health!

Replies

  • sahead710
    sahead710 Posts: 74 Member
    Hey there it sounds like you've been on one arduous journey but it sounds like now you're doing awesome! I've only been on the wagon 4 months but I'm making progress, people like you who are strong enough to continue despite the obstacles in their paths are inspiring to me! :)
  • LSamara
    LSamara Posts: 14 Member
    Yes, I have. Thank you! I hope you find great success. There are some days I have to drag myself to the gym. But, once I'm there I have a good workout.

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