My Cancer Journey

In November 2021, my life took a dramatic turn when I was diagnosed with Ros1 positive lung cancer. At that time, I was a busy mother, fully engaged in my work in the charity sector, traveling internationally, and supporting various overseas projects. Aside from a nagging cough, I felt healthy and was actively focused on my well-being—until I was confronted with this life-changing diagnosis.

The initial shock was immense, but I was resolute in my decision to fight. My faith was a vital part of my journey, along with the incredible support from my family and friends who surrounded me. In those early days, I turned to social media, looking for someone who understood my situation—someone else facing a significant cancer diagnosis, figuring out how to cope with fear, how to communicate with their children, and how to keep moving forward. I wanted to know: Were they surviving? How did they cope? What did life look like after such a diagnosis?

Keeping it a secret???

Right from the start, I chose not to keep my diagnosis a secret. Instead, I opted to share my journey openly, hoping that someone who might follow in my footsteps—perhaps another busy professional or parent caught off guard by a similar diagnosis—would find strength in my experience. I aimed to help ease their fears, demonstrate that life goes on, and reassure others that there is treatment available, hope to be found, and even a new normal to embrace.

Every interview I participate in, every story I share, and every platform I engage with is driven by the goal of raising awareness and being a positive advocate for lung cancer, especially Ros1 lung cancer

ROS1 Lung Cancer

In my role as Vice-Chair of Ros1ders UK, I strive to amplify this message. I want people to see me and understand that it is possible to thrive while living with cancer. Thanks to advancements in medicine, treatment options have significantly improved, enabling many of us to lead relatively normal lives.

I envision a future where cancer is no longer seen as a terminal illness but rather as a manageable chronic condition. That future is attainable if we persist in raising awareness, advocating for access to life-saving treatments, and using our voices to drive change. 

Simone Olagoke - Vice-Chair, Ros1ders UK