Stage IV ROS1 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Ashley's Survivor Story

What happened, in summary

Ashley was 35, active and raising 2 young children when she was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small cell lung adenocarcinoma with a ROS1 mutation. Her first major symptoms were sharp pain in her right abdomen and shoulder, severe shortness of breath and low oxygen levels. At first, she was treated as though she had pneumonia. She later learned she had fluid around her right lung, a large pulmonary embolism and suspicious lesions on her spine. Fluid from her lung tested positive for adenocarcinoma, and further workup confirmed Stage IV lung cancer. Ashley sought a second opinion at MD Anderson while also keeping local oncology care. She hoped biomarker testing would find a treatable mutation because she wanted to avoid traditional chemotherapy if possible. The testing found ROS1, opening the door to targeted therapy. She started a nightly oral TKI, but the exact drug name was not stated. Because the full dose was difficult to tolerate, she later used a lower dose. She also pursued integrative supportive care, including hyperbaric oxygen and IV vitamin C/sodium bicarbonate, to support her body during treatment. As of December 2024, Ashley considered herself to have no evidence of active disease. She remained focused on family, faith, advocacy and living fully while continuing targeted treatment.