Jason's Story of Navigating Cancer through Community

When Jason was 48 years old, his life changed in an instant. After noticing blood in his stool, he went to the doctor and learned he had colon cancer. “It was a shock,” Jason recalls. “You feel young and full of life. Then, you get that message that says, ‘We need to talk about the cancer you have.’”

Further testing showed the cancer had also spread to his liver. Doctors decided to treat the colon cancer first, removing a section of his colon. Later, Jason had part of his liver removed. His team treated another part with ablation.

Facing Treatment with Faith

Jason admits the diagnosis was frightening. Yet, he found strength in his faith. “I told God, ‘You already have my life predetermined. But I’m going to fight this all the way until the end,’” he shares. “From that day, it’s been a blessing. I’ve had no stress, no anxiety. Just a walk through life, meeting new people.”

He also leaned on his doctors for guidance. One told him not to worry about old information he found online. “A lot of that stuff becomes outdated,” Jason explains. “There are new techniques. That was reassuring.”

Modern Options, New Hope

When new spots appeared on Jason’s liver, his doctors suggested a modern treatment called Y90. This procedure uses tiny radioactive beads delivered through blood vessels directly to the cancer. Jason researched options and even got second opinions at large hospitals. “It’s important to be comfortable with your care,” he encourages. In the end, he chose Y90 and was grateful for the expertise and support from his medical team.

Jason has also tried several types of chemotherapy. Some caused side effects like cramps or redness in his hands and feet. But, his care team helped adjust treatments. He’s now on a medicine called Lonsurf with an added therapy that has worked well for him. “It’s nice to know there are options. It’s not only one treatment and that’s it,” Jason assures.

Changing Lifestyle

Since his diagnosis, Jason has changed his daily habits. He quit drinking, improved his diet, and added more exercise. “The diet is the big thing,” he urges. “As long as I eat better, the medication seems to not affect me as much. I have more energy.”

Power of Community

Jason says his family, friends, and fellow patients have been key to his journey. “You can talk to people that don’t have cancer. They want to understand, but they don’t,” he offers. “When you talk with somebody who does have cancer, it means more.”

He has supported other patients. Raised money for children of friends who passed away. Found strength in the kindness of others. “There’s no easy day with cancer. Some days are easier than others. But every day is a blessing. Every sunrise, every sunset is beautiful.”

Looking Forward

Jason continues treatment every two weeks. Still, his outlook is hopeful. His goals are simple: to see his children grow up, graduate, and build families of their own. With the support of his faith, family, doctors, and community, Jason chooses to face each day with courage and gratitude.

For more information on Riverside Cancer Institute, please visit myrhc.net/cancer.