Living with Lung Cancer: Andrea Whatley's Story of Courage

In January 2024, Andrea Whatley began experiencing a nagging, persistent cough, severe shortness of breath and chest heaviness that made it challenging for her to complete work duties and home routines.

Worsening Symptoms Despite Treatment

She visited her primary care office and was told it was bronchitis. They administered steroids, but her symptoms persisted. 

"I'd had asthma as a child, which I outgrew in high school. I thought perhaps that was part of it, but it didn't add up."

She rode out the steroid treatment for a few months, and at each doctor's visit, she was told it was a hard-to-treat bronchitis. 

In March, Andrea was still very unwell, so the team ordered an X-ray, which they observed to be bronchitis. They sent her home with a prescription for more steroids. 

"At a later appointment, after I advocated for more testing, another provider in the practice told me that the test showed it was bronchitis and while there could be a thousand things wrong, she didn't know what else they could do. I felt very dismissed at that point and decided I wouldn't return.

On July 16, Andrea awoke barely able to breathe. She had an appointment scheduled with her primary care provider but canceled it since she was certain they'd tell her it was bronchitis.

Instead, she called the practice to share her symptoms and ask for advice. The triage nurse informed her to go to her nearest emergency room. 

An Introduction to the Highest Quality Care: WakeMed

"My husband drove me to WakeMed Cary Hospital Emergency Department, and my sister met me there. I was very afraid and confused. I was struggling to breathe, and I knew something was wrong with me, but I didn't know what it could be."

Upon arrival, Andrea was awed by the sharp contrast in the kind demeanor of the team at WakeMed versus what she had experienced at her primary care office. 

"Everyone at WakeMed was fabulous. They took me seriously and fiercely worked to get me a bed. The nursing staff found ways to comfort me in the interim."

Once in a patient room, emergency medicine physician, Geeta Subramaniam, MD, ran an X-ray and agreed that it could be bronchitis, but she decided to also do a computed tomography (CAT) scan. This test came back with similar results. She then ran a positron tomography (PET) scan.

A Shocking Diagnosis

Before long, the provider emerged with downcast eyes. 

"She looked at me with great concern and said there was a mass in my chest, and it appeared cancerous." 

The doctor immediately contacted Kevin Davidson, MD, a WakeMed pulmonologist, to perform a bronchoscopy.

Dr. Davidson performed the bronchoscopy on July 17 and confirmed for Andrea that it was lung cancer. It was in the advanced stages and fast-spreading. She would need immediate treatment and would remain as an inpatient while the team determined the next course of action. 

On July 22, Praveen Namireddy, MD, of WakeMed Cancer Care – Hematology & Medical Oncology, scheduled Andrea for chemotherapy.

"I was calm when he shared that I would need immediate treatment. I realized it was serious, and all I wanted to know was what we were going to do. I would do whatever it would take. I wanted to live, and I wanted quality of life."

Ongoing Care at WakeMed Cancer Care

Andrea was discharged home within a few days of starting chemotherapy with information to return to WakeMed Cancer Care – Waverly Hematology & Medical Oncology – Cary three days per week for as long as was needed.

"I was happy to finally know what was wrong, so I didn't care about treatment side effects, including losing my hair. In fact, losing my hair was the only side effect of that initial cancer treatment. One day, I combed my hair and a bunch came out. It happened again, so I got shaved bald. No big deal."

Since her cancer was inoperable, Andrea was started with chemotherapy and radiation followed by immune therapy. 

"Right after treatment, I was extremely tired and weak. At some points, I needed a wheelchair."

Setbacks and More Options

Over the course of treatment, Andrea has had to undergo two transfusions for low blood count. She has also lost 30 pounds due to loss of appetite. She continues to work hard to maintain her weight with healthy nutritional choices.

"The WakeMed dietitian told me to eat whatever I want because I need the nutrition, and if that means indulging in my favorites, I was welcome to it"

She also had a setback when scans revealed her cancer had spread beyond her lungs and into her lymph nodes. Yet, undeterred, Dr. Namireddy offered her another drug called Imdelltra. She was readmitted to the hospital for two medication cycles, so they could monitor how her body responded.

Andrea responded well while in the hospital and is now on maintenance treatments for life. 

Dr. Namireddy shares, "Andrea initially received chemotherapy and radiation together followed by immune therapy. Currently she is on medicine called Tarlatamab, which is newer breakthrough medication for small cell lung cancer. As an oncologist, extending life for someone with lung cancer isn't just adding months to a chart. It is about creating space for meaning — a graduation, a grandchild hug, one more holiday together. Even a little more time can carry enormous weight. Behind every treatment plan is a human story, and my goal is to protect not just survival, but the chance to live fully — however long that may be. Caring for Andrea has been a privilege. Her resilience in the phase of illness, the strength drawn from a supportive family and the thoughtful conversations we have shared have reminded me why I do this work. She brings not only courage, but also perspective — turning each encounter into something meaningful for both of us."

Andrea's Life Today

Andrea is grateful for every sweet moment with her family and relishes each moment, knowing time is precious. 

"I experience less pain now than before treatments. I take vitamins to get in extra nutrition. I spend a lot of time with my dogs — Quincy, a miniature Schnauzer and Finn, a Yorkie mix. When I'm up to it, I also run little errands to keep busy. My entire family is my lifeline. My husband and sister stay by my side."

WakeMed: A Care Team Like No Other

In reflecting on her journey, Andrea is grateful for the care she has received at WakeMed.

"When I learned of my condition, I prayed to God to orchestrate a team of caring people. He did just that. Dr. Namireddy's team goes above and beyond. One day, I got sick in the waiting room before infusion, and the front-end staff and infusion nurses were at my side in a flash, not leaving until I felt much better. These care team members are my micro family. They are very special to my family and me. We have a true bond. Also, Allie Franks, the nurse navigator, and Carlene Perry, the clinical nurse, are always available when I need help after hours. Then, from the onset of meeting Dr. Namireddy, he has been very approachable, exuding confidence and explaining my cancer in a way that my family and I understand. He is compassionate and friendly. A couple of times, several family members were present during an office visit. He gladly squeezed them into his office and addressed all their questions. He is a true caretaker and an answer to prayer." 

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About WakeMed Cancer Care – Hematology & Medical Oncology

At WakeMed Cancer Care, we understand that being diagnosed with a blood disorder or cancer can feel overwhelming. Recognizing the fear and uncertainty a patient may be experiencing, we are committed to walking alongside our patients, to support, guide and render the most compassionate care for as long as we’re needed.

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About WakeMed Imaging

WakeMed Imaging Services is a full-service imaging department offering advanced technology, convenient access and prompt testing and results. As professionals who have a true passion for care and caring, we focus on providing excellent, individualized service to each patient. 

About WakeMed Pulmonology

WakeMed’s team of pulmonologists provide a comprehensive range of lung services and treat a wide range of respiratory and lung conditions to enhance our patients’ respiratory health. Let our experts at WakeMed help you breathe a little easier.