I went to the VA for lower back pain. They did blood work, X-rays and said everything was fine, but wanted to send me to Green Bay for more tests. Next day I got a call and was told I had cancer. That was pretty shocking to go from “everything looks good” to “you have cancer.” But I’m glad they caught it.
I met with the doctor and staff in Appleton. He explained that what I had was a fast-moving type of cancer. We agreed to attack it aggressively.
The chemo and spinal taps were intense. At times I was about ready to give up. My sister-in-law is a cancer survivor and she helped me realize that it’s okay to feel the way I did. I had a lot of other people, too, who encouraged me not to give up, and many prayed for me.
Those five months of treatment gave me lots to think about. I thought about riding my bike again and about the doctors and nurses. I really appreciate the work they do, the constant care and concern they have for cancer patients, and the medication. It all pulled me through. I will be forever grateful.
Learn more about our cancer program:
ThedaCare Cancer Care
