Living With One Lung in 2025: Emily's Journey of Survival and Strength
Discover Emily Bennett Taylor's inspiring story of living with one lung after a life-changing surgery in 2012. Learn how she overcame stage 4 lung cancer, adapted to her new normal, and thrives with her family today.
At just 28 years old in 2012, Emily Bennett Taylor received a daunting diagnosis: stage 4 adenocarcinoma lung cancer, the most prevalent lung cancer type among non-smokers. With survival odds typically low at this stage, her prognosis seemed grim.
Yet, through aggressive chemotherapy, Emily’s tumor shrank enough for her medical team to recommend a pneumonectomy—the surgical removal of her right lung. This complex operation also involved removing part of her right diaphragm, central chest lymph nodes, and reconstructing part of her heart’s protective sac using Gore-Tex material.
Emily emerged from surgery with a significant scar running from her right breast to her rib cage—a visible reminder of the battle she fought. While some patients regain remarkable physical abilities post-surgery, Emily knew recovery would require patience and adjustment.
Adapting to a New Pace of Life
Contrary to common assumptions, the remaining lung expands to fill the chest cavity, allowing patients to retain approximately 70% of their previous lung function. Emily experiences breathlessness only occasionally but has learned to embrace a slower, more mindful lifestyle.
Before her diagnosis, Emily was a vibrant, active young woman juggling a busy career and daily errands with ease. Now, simple tasks like standing up require deliberate pauses to prevent dizziness, and rest has become a vital part of her routine.
Her husband’s encouragement to prioritize self-care helped Emily embrace what she once saw as 'selfishness'—a crucial mindset for healing. This shift was a profound lesson learned during her chemotherapy journey, emphasizing the importance of rest and recovery.
Living with an Invisible Disability
Emily’s condition is often invisible to others, as she appears healthy and energetic. The only visible sign is her surgical scar, usually concealed under clothing. This invisibility sometimes makes it challenging to communicate her physical limits, like needing assistance on stairs or during daily activities.
Accepting her new reality as a person with a disability has been part of Emily’s ongoing journey. She now welcomes support, such as help with grocery shopping, recognizing that strength also comes from acknowledging one’s needs.
Redefining Family and Motherhood
Emily and her husband Miles had planned to start a family before her cancer diagnosis. After freezing embryos through IVF prior to treatment, they waited until she was declared NED (no evidence of disease) for two years before pursuing parenthood.
Due to medical concerns about pregnancy, they chose surrogacy, and in 2016, welcomed twin daughters, Hope and Maggie. Emily’s energy remains limited, requiring 10–12 hours of sleep nightly and ongoing rest to support her heart and remaining lung.
With a strong support system including night nurses and family, Emily embraces motherhood on her terms, understanding that being a loving mom doesn’t require perfection or nonstop activity.
Celebrating Life and Resilience
Emily and Miles commemorate milestones with special “Lung Days,” celebrating her strength and survival. From blowing out candles to climbing rooftops shouting “I’m NED!”, these moments symbolize triumph over adversity.
Four years post-surgery, Emily leads a joyful, fulfilling life with her family. She inspires others by proving that living fully with one lung is not only possible but empowering. Many individuals with pneumonectomy actively participate in running events and daily exercise, breaking misconceptions about limitations.
Emily’s story is a testament to resilience, self-care, and redefining what it means to live well after a life-altering diagnosis.
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