In October of 2001, James Rhio O’Connor was
diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma at the age of 61. He was told he would less
than a year to live and that surgery would not be an option because of the
location of his tumor. He was also told that chemotherapy would only lessen his
quality of life and not provide many benefits. Faced with such heartbreaking
and shocking news, Rhio did not let this bring down his spirits or bring his
life to a halt. Rather, he decided to take action and do an intense amount of research
on the disease that was threatening his life.
Mesothelioma
is a cancerous disease in which mesothelium cells become abnormal and divide
without control or order. Each year in the United States, there are over 2,000
new cases of mesothelioma, and studies have shown that white males are most
prone to the disease. Most of these cases, including that of Rhio, are due to
the exposure of asbestos. Asbestos generates from specific mineral groups and is
often found in construction and fireproof materials.
When
I first read about Rhio’s story, I was so amazed and inspired by his reaction.
Often times when we know of someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, they
either begin the treatment recommended by their doctor right away, or they
begin living their life with an expiration date in mind. Instead, Rhio decided
he would take initiative and find ways to prolong his life, rather than simply
enjoy what time he was given. I
think it takes an unbelievable amount of courage to and faith to stare death in
the face and not let such paralyzing news affect one’s life. What I find even
more inspiring is how he took the time to share his story with others as
opposed to simply spending time enjoying his life. His book, They Said Months, I Chose Years: A
Mesothelioma Survivor's Story, is a moving story for
anyone faced with a dire cancer prognosis.
Rhio’s
inspiring story will motivate me to take similar actions if faced with the same
challenges. Initially, I know the shocking news will lead me to seek comfort
from family and close friends. However, I would not let a cancer prognosis stop
me from living my life. More importantly, I would focus on adding years to the
amount of time I am given. I would begin my research online, focusing on
organizations and universities with extensive amounts of credible research.
Some examples include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American
Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, and even Google Scholar. I would then begin seeking advice from
doctors around the country who specialize in the kind of cancer I am diagnosed
with. Through several consultations, I will be able to accumulate a variety of
opinions and alternative treatments. I think it is also important to take
advantage of personal connections in situations like these. Between family and
friends, several people are likely to have connections or know someone who
knows someone who either dealt with a similar situation or is educated in this
field.
After
collecting the research, discussing all possible options with loved ones, and
considering financial circumstances, I would choose the best available
treatment that is suitable for my situation. I would definitely look beyond the
standard chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical options if they had little or
nothing to offer in prolonging my life. Alternative treatments should be
available to any patients who are willing to try them. I believe they are well
worth considering and utilizing as an option. Personally, I believe that if a
new treatment has the potential to provide a longer or healthier life, it is
worth trying. If I am a cancer patient given a death sentence, what’s the worst
that can happen? Even if the alternative treatments don’t work, doctors and
other patients will be able to use my case as an example for further research
in developing the treatment.
I
think more research and better availability of alternative treatments is
necessary to improve progress in curing and preventing cancer, as well as
giving people the greatest chance of survival. If more patients can participate
in alternative approaches, then more cases will be available to researchers.
However, none of this would be possible without the proper funding. Whether it
is government funds, or organizational or private grants, every little bit
towards cancer research helps. At the beginning of 2012, the American Cancer
Society estimated that 1,638,910 people would be diagnosed with cancer that
year. In addition to this amount, 577,190 were expected to die of cancer. This
is an astounding number of lives, and something must be done to help find a
cure.
I
believe James Rhio O’Connor is a hero for those who have faced life-altering
challenges. His motivation, determination, passion, and faith, is something I
could only hope to exemplify in life. Surviving with mesothelioma for more than
seven years, when he was told he would have less than a year to live, is truly
extraordinary. Rhio’s story is one to be shared for many years to come.
