When I was first told I had cancer, I couldn’t quite believe it. I was physically fit and felt well, so it didn’t make sense to me. The results, however, told a very different story. At first, I hesitated to share the news with my family and friends. Nothing in my day-to-day life had really changed, and with no clear resolution in sight, it felt difficult to explain. At the time, my son was also going through a lot in his own life, and that made me even more reluctant to add to his worries. 

Eventually, with the guidance and support of my doctor, I found the courage to share the news with my son. Having that reassurance, and someone to walk alongside me through the process, made a world of difference. It gave me the strength to continue, and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. 

It was strange,to be told I was seriously unwell, 

but not feel it at all 

The clinical trial became my very first treatment. In some ways, the hardest part of my journey was the lack of symptoms, it was strange and disorienting to be told I was seriously unwell when I didn’t feel it at all. The doctors would explain what was happening inside my body, but because I wasn’t sick in the way I expected to be, it was difficult to accept. 

At the same time, starting treatment felt like a gift, a second chance at life. What made the biggest impact was not just the treatment itself, but the people I met along the way. From the beginning,the staff made me feel supported and cared for. Over time,they became like a second family, people I could truly trust and who I knew cared deeply about me. 

Before being referred to Linear, I didn’t know much about clinical trials. To be honest, I was anxious at first, especially because I’ve always been careful about what I put into my body. The thought of taking part in something experimental felt uncertain. But my doctor explained everything clearly, answered my questions, and gave me the reassurance I needed. That trust made it possible for me to move forward with confidence. 

From frightening and overwhelming,to 

manageable even comforting 

Looking back, I would describe my clinical trial experience as wonderful. The people around me made what could have been frightening and overwhelming into something manageable, even comforting. They carried me through the harder moments and helped me feel calm in the midst of uncertainty. 

For me and my family, the trial has been life-changing. It truly feels like we’ve been given a second chance at life together, and there’s no greater gift than that.