Jim Herbert, a patient with ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), discusses his diagnosis and treatment journey.
ROS1-positive NSCLC is a rare and aggressive lung cancer that typically occurs in patients aged 50 years and older and who have never smoked. Brain metastases are common in patients with this condition.
Mr. Herbert, a longtime ice hockey referee and coach, has always been healthy, active, and a lifelong non-smoker. However, in 2024, a cough that returned at the end of every hockey season caused a fractured rib, and scans found a mass in his lung. Additional biomarker testing later identified a highly rare ROS1 mutation, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of advanced ROS1-positive NSCLC.
Chemotherapy and surgery to remove part of his lung was started quickly and after his mutation was confirmed, he began targeted therapy Ibtrozi (taletrectinib), which he remains on today. Starting on this treatment allowed Mr. Herbert to get back on the ice and keep reffing.
His message to other patients is to stay positive and continue to believe, noting the importance of taking good care of yourself throughout treatment and beyond.
To learn more about ROS1-positive NSCLC and other rare cancers, visit https://checkrare.com/diseases/cancers/
