Taking the wheel from cancer

Monday, February 2, 2026

When Annie Ferguson had trouble breathing in July 2024, she wanted to be on the safe side and made an appointment with her doctor.

“I couldn’t stop coughing,” Annie said. “I had a few X-rays and am so glad that I did.”

Her decision saved her life.

Annie learned she had stage IV non-small cell lung cancer, a condition that develops in the lung tissue. Like for so many people, Annie’s diagnosis was unexpected. She cherished her family, loved spending time outdoors and valued her work as a school bus driver in Coshocton County.

“I was shocked to hear that I had lung cancer, especially as a non-smoker,” said Annie.

A new roadmap

Up to 20% of lung cancers happen in non-smokers in the United States. Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common form of lung cancer. It starts when lung cells grow abnormally and spread to other parts of the body. Annie soon met with Shyamal Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center. Further testing also revealed that the cancer had spread to other parts of her body.

“I felt helpless,” said Annie. “Dr. Bastola knelt beside me. He answered my questions. His guidance helped me understand my diagnosis.”

Annie was ready to rise above her condition. She wanted to understand her treatment options and return to her active lifestyle as soon as possible.

In November 2024, Annie underwent 14 days of radiation to prevent the cancer from spreading. She also started taking targeted medication after learning the cancer was caused by a genetic mutation. The pills help fight remaining cancer cells while protecting healthy ones.

Back on route

“Dr. Bastola knelt beside me. He answered my questions. His guidance helped me understand my diagnosis.”

Her dedication has paid off. She is responding well to treatment and continues to receive treatment with ongoing checkups and monitoring.

Annie has returned to her favorite activities over the last year, including walking, biking, kayaking and spending memorable moments with her grandson.

Annie has also returned to the work she cherishes, helping students start and end their school days.

“I feel like I am called to be their bus driver,” said Annie. “I’m blessed and thankful to see them grow up.”