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In January, Allison Ciaccio found herself struggling with a persistent respiratory illness that over-the-counter medications and a prescribed antibiotic could not alleviate. After enduring a month of symptoms, her daughter urged her to seek treatment at the emergency room.
A chest X-ray revealed a potential case of pneumonia, but also a concerning blot that warranted further investigation. Despite undergoing treatment for pneumonia, Ciaccio’s symptoms persisted. It wasn’t until the end of March that a CAT scan indicated a “highly suspicious lesion” on one of her lungs, prompting her primary care physician to refer her to a specialist.
On Good Friday, Ciaccio received a call that plunged her into despair. The fear of a serious illness loomed over her, especially as her daughter was expecting a baby—her first grandchild. The thought of potentially missing precious moments with her family shattered her sense of hope.
“I was in total disbelief. It was a whirlwind of emotions in just a few seconds,” shared Ciaccio, now 65. “I was looking forward to my first grandchild, and suddenly I was confronted with the realization that I might not be there to share those moments. Is it going to take me away from my family? Is it life-ending? The uncertainty is overwhelming.”
Following her referral, Ciaccio consulted a pulmonologist and underwent a PET scan, which uses a radioactive tracer to detect signs of cancer. Unfortunately, the scan indicated malignancy, and a subsequent biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of lung cancer. Ciaccio found it hard to reconcile this unexpected news, particularly as a non-smoker who believed she was in good health.
The Reality of Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers
Dr. Jonathan Villena-Vargas, a thoracic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, noted that Ciaccio’s diagnosis reflected a troubling trend. Each year, approximately 250,000 new cases of lung cancer are reported, with around 20% occurring in individuals who have never smoked.
Factors such as environmental exposure—like radon and asbestos—and genetic predispositions may contribute to lung cancer in these non-smoking cases. Ciaccio is still uncertain about what led to her illness.
Lung cancer remains the deadliest cancer annually, with Villena-Vargas stating that if cases among non-smokers were classified separately, they would rank among the top ten most fatal cancers. “There isn’t definitive data comparing their fatality rates. The critical factor influencing outcomes is early detection,” he explained. “Because non-smokers lack the common risk factor of smoking, lung cancer can be more challenging to detect, often found incidentally and at more advanced stages.”
Fortunately for Ciaccio, her cancer was diagnosed at Stage I, which is crucial for her prospects of successful treatment and recovery. Reflecting on her experience, Ciaccio expressed gratitude: “I’m relieved I sought medical attention when I did; otherwise, I wouldn’t have had any indicators to prompt a visit.”
Advancements in Surgical Techniques
Initially, Ciaccio considered treatment in Princeton, New Jersey, but a friend suggested she consult with Dr. Robert Cerfolio at NYU Langone, who is known for his expertise in robotic surgery. Cerfolio has performed over 3,000 surgeries using this innovative technique.
This method involves the use of a robotic system that facilitates several small incisions between the ribs, allowing for greater precision. The surgeon operates from a console, utilizing high-definition cameras and tiny robotic instruments that approximate the size of half an inch. These tools replicate the functionalities of traditional surgical tools but in a more minimally invasive manner.
“With robotic surgery, there are fewer complications, including reduced risks of bleeding,” explained Cerfolio. He suggested a robotic left upper lobectomy for Ciaccio, which would involve removing a significant portion of her left lung. Excited about the possibility, she agreed to proceed with the surgery, and the operation was successful. In addition to her lung biopsy, Cerfolio removed 25 lymph nodes, and Ciaccio was able to return home the next day, avoiding the need for chemotherapy or radiation due to the early detection of her cancer.
Embracing Life Post-Diagnosis
Since her surgery eight months ago, Ciaccio has maintained a rigorous follow-up schedule with both Cerfolio’s team and a local pulmonologist to monitor her lung function and check for recurrence of cancer. Feeling guided and supported through her journey, she remarked, “I keep encountering these angels along the way, helping me navigate this process.”
Now, Ciaccio is focused on cherishing each moment with her daughter and granddaughter. She is reducing her hours at work and is eager to engage in new activities, such as pickleball with her husband. “This grandbaby has completely captured my heart, and I want nothing more than to be present for her. As I age, experiences like this clarify what truly matters. I am determined to be around for at least another 20 years, and I will do everything within my power to make that happen,” she declared.
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