Living to the Fullest: Lysa’s Decade of Defying ROS1 Lung Cancer

In a recent Hope With Answers podcast episode, host Diane M. speaks with Dr. Tejas P.—an oncologist at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus specializing in lung cancer—and Lysa B., a 12-year survivor of ROS1-positive lung cancer. They share a powerful dialogue about innovative targeted treatments, ongoing research, and self-advocacy in the face of a rare and aggressive disease.

Dr. Patil explains that “ROS1 is a type of mutation we see in patients with lung cancer. It’s important because there are targeted treatments available… that really are not like chemotherapy.” A ROS1 rearrangement occurs in approximately 1-2% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases. Though rare, it can be particularly aggressive, often spreading to the brain and bones. However, targeted therapy drugs—designed to inhibit the ROS1 mutation—have shown promising results, giving patients like Lysa the chance to maintain a good quality of life.

Lysa’s personal story as a mother of two highlights the power of self-advocacy. Even after living with lung cancer for over a decade, she remains optimistic and engaged in her own treatment decisions. “You have to keep advocating for yourself. Throughout this entire process I think that is so critically important,” she affirms. When her cancer progressed, she eagerly joined a clinical trial for a new targeted therapy, illustrating how innovative research offers renewed hope.

From understanding the genetics behind ROS1 to celebrating Lysa’s resilience, Dr. Patil and Lysa illuminate a path forward for patients and families alike. They also remind us of the importance of continuous advancements in lung cancer research, as well as the life-changing impact of patient advocacy.