— Mary, 81
The Value of Advocacy in Facing Metastasized Lung Cancer
Situation
Priorities
Facing a harsh reality
A very difficult diagnosis
Mary was diagnosed with terminal non-small cell lung cancer at age 81. Not only had the cancer metastasized, but it was also complicated by other severe health conditions she had been living with. As a retired nurse, she realized her prognosis was quite poor.
An ongoing need for Mary’s help
She lived with her daughter, son-in-law, and two young grandchildren. The family relied heavily on her help around the house and with the children, in large part because Mary’s daughter suffered from a debilitating chronic immune disease. Mary viewed her role in the family as “chief cook and bottle washer.” She was happy to be able to help them. It gave her a sense of purpose. She was now determined to manage her condition as best possible and maintain a quality of life that would allow her to continue to help — and not become a burden.
Engaging with Ardynn
Mary’s primary care physician told her about Ardynn, realizing she needed support. Mary reached out and spoke with an Ardynn advocate the next day. She learned that the advocate could help navigate her situation and the complex medical landscape, and help Mary make informed decisions that would align with her wants and goals.
The many forms of support
Navigational support
The Ardynn advocate facilitated a review of estimated survival curves which revealed what Mary assumed: she was facing a terminal illness. After discussing how Mary envisioned spending her remaining time, they discussed quality versus quantity of life, and how that might be impacted by her priorities.
Educational support
Mary’s advocate educated her and her family on the potential treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and the emerging role of immunotherapy. The advocate detailed side effects of each, helping Mary weigh the benefits against the impact on her daily life.
Pre- and post-consult support
Before each medical consultation, the advocate prepared Mary with key questions to ask, ensuring concerns about managing her condition while caring for her family were appropriately addressed. After consultations, the advocate helped review the information provided, supporting Mary in decision making and ensuring her choices reflected her objectives.
Support for family, and planning ahead
Recognizing the need to manage symptoms in the short term and longer term, Mary’s advocate facilitated integration of palliative care into her treatment plan, focusing on comfort and quality of life. They also provided resources and guidance for Mary to have difficult conversations with her family about her prognosis and end-of-life planning to ensure they were prepared for her eventual passing.
Emotional support
Throughout their engagement, the advocate was an unwavering source of emotional support for Mary, whether it was offering a compassionate ear, helping Mary cope with the emotional toll of her illness, or empowering her to live the remainder of life on her terms.
Treatment decision support
Mary decided against treatment in favor of palliative care to manage symptoms. This choice allowed her to maintain some semblance of her role within the family for as long as possible. Mary passed away the following year, having lived her last months with dignity and peace of mind, supported by her family and her advocate.
Summing up
This story is illustrative based on a real Ardynn case; name and likeness of the member has been changed to respect their privacy.
“My advocate is helping me handle my situation in ways I didn’t know how to do on my own. I’m used to taking care of other people. It’s nice having someone help take care of me.”
MARY
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