Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It will kill more people this year than breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, and liver cancers combined. Unfortunately, more than 50 percent of new lung cancer cases will be diagnosed at an advanced stage, when survival rates are lower. These are alarming statistics, but one woman refuses to let a diagnosis of lung cancer slow her down.

Ann Jones, 71, of Baldwin County, was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer in August of 2005. At the time of her diagnosis, Jones was told by her physician that she had three months to live, but she wasn’t about to go down without a fight. As she enters into 2008, Jones looks forward to a new year and the milestones it may bring.

“My oncologist said I looked too healthy to have cancer,” Jones said. “After the initial shock wore off, I knew I had no choice; I had to fight. It’s not easy, but I’m thankful for each day.”

Following other treatments, such as chemotherapy, Jones’ doctor recommended Tarceva® (erlotinib tablets). Tarceva is an oral tablet indicated for the treatment

of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer after failure of at least one prior chemotherapy regimen.

There are currently four standard treatments for lung cancer — surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies — according to nationally known oncologist Dr. Roman Perez-Soler, Chair of the Department of Oncology at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City.

“In recent years there have been some advancements in lung cancer treatment, including targeted therapies like Tarceva, that allow us to specifically attack the cancer cells,” said Dr. Perez-Soler.

These advances have helped patients like Jones live with the disease. Jones is a retired school teacher who enjoys spending free time with her three children and three grandchildren.

n reflecting on her diagnosis and journey with lung cancer, Jones said, “What lifts my spirit is my wonderful husband, my family, and my church, who keep me in their prayers.”

Results with Tarceva will be different for each patient and Tarceva is not right for everyone. In clinical studies, there were infrequent reports of serious lung injuries

similar to Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)-like events, including deaths. Tarceva may cause harm to an unborn baby or may cause possible risk or pregnancy loss. Women should avoid becoming pregnant and avoid breast feeding while taking Tarceva. Rash and diarrhea were the most common side effects associated with the use of Tarceva in clinical studies.

For more information on lung cancer and treatment options, visit www.lungcanceralliance.org or www.tarceva.com.