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Episode 27: Fighting Throat Cancer: The Journey, Challenges and Importance of Planning

cancer community support content warning end-of-life planning fighter legacy planning organize paperwork planning throat cancer Oct 22, 2024
Santiago & Honey with photo of Santiago as the speaker

*Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about cancer, its treatment & the side effects, which may be emotionally challenging for some listeners.

In this special episode, Santiago shares his experience battling stage IVB throat cancer. He highlights the challenges faced by cancer patients, the importance of planning ahead, and offers practical tips to help others navigate similar situations.

Today’s essential question: Why is it important to plan for emergencies or end-of-life situations while you are clear of mind?

Episode Highlights:

Life Before Cancer

  • Santiago felt relatively healthy despite aches from 21+ years of military service.
  • He was active as a JROTC instructor & completed the Marine Corps Marathon in October 2015.

The Move & Diagnosis

  • During their final military move, Santiago felt something in his throat & went to his doctor in July.
  • The ENT specialist performed a biopsy & 2 weeks later, on July 25, 2016, Santiago was diagnosed with stage IVB throat cancer.
  • Honey accompanied him, but Santiago received the diagnosis alone before breaking the news to her.

The Treatment Process

  • Santiago underwent surgeries for a chemo port & PEG (stomach) tube.
  • He endured 7 weeks of radiation with a claustrophobic mask bolted to the bed.
  • He received 3 rounds of Cisplatin chemo, suffering from nausea, vomiting, hearing loss & nerve damage.

Challenges

  • Santiago’s weight dropped from 185 to 134 pounds in just 3 weeks due to extreme nausea.
  • He struggled with drop foot & nerve damage, affecting his ability to walk & hold objects, leading them to switch to metal mugs with tops.

Balancing Work & Home Life

  • Santiago’s boss allowed him to take leave, but he made weekly visits to work when he wasn’t in the hospital to reassure others he was fighting.
  • He struggled with being unable to perform tasks he once enjoyed, like mowing the lawn.

The Hospital Experience

  • Santiago praised his ENT doctor, Dr. Newberry, & radiation oncologist, Dr. Wong, but had a tough experience with his first hemo-oncologist, who read the wrong patient’s file.

Post-Treatment Considerations

  • Ongoing side effects include special dental care needs due to radiation and  surgeries to widen his throat so he could eat more comfortably.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stay Informed: Be proactive, research your treatment & ask the right questions to avoid complications.
  • Emotional Resilience: Cancer is emotionally draining. Acknowledge your own needs while balancing those of your caregivers.
  • Caregiver Support: Santiago emphasizes the vital role his wife, Honey, & his dog, Maxx, played during his fight, showing how love & support can make a difference.

Conclusion:

Santiago’s journey highlights the importance of mental and physical strength, along with the critical support of loved ones. By sharing his story, he hopes to help others understand the challenges of cancer and the need for planning ahead while you’re clear of mind. Facing the toughest battles becomes easier when you’re prepared and supported.

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