I never imagined my life would take such an unexpected turn. As a retired nurse, I spent 25 years caring for others, ensuring their well-being, and making a difference in their lives. But when I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer—leiomyosarcoma—I found myself on the other side of the hospital bed, facing the uncertainty and fear that so many of my patients had endured.

At first, I didn’t take it seriously. In 2020, doctors discovered a mass in my pelvic area. They removed it with good margins, and I thought I had dodged a bullet. I felt fine—no pain, no drastic symptoms. Every six months, I underwent scans, and for three years, they all came back clear. I was convinced I was in the clear and could move forward with life without worry. My wife, Sonia, and I had built a fulfilling life together, running a business, traveling, and cooking healthy meals. We were empty nesters, rediscovering ourselves after our children had grown. Life was steady and peaceful.

Then, in January 2024, everything changed. I walked into what I thought would be my final routine checkup, expecting to shake my oncologist’s hand and move on. Instead, I heard the words no one ever wants to hear: “There’s a new mass in your lower lung.” It was four centimeters, and it had metastasized—stage four. The oncologist was blunt—six to eight months to live.

Time stopped. My mind raced with questions. Why me? Why now? I had always taken care of my health. I exercised. I ate well. How could this be happening? The fear was overwhelming. But I realized I had a choice: I could let fear consume me or take control of my narrative.

I delve into research, using my medical background to explore every possible path forward. I refused to make decisions based on fear. Instead of undergoing chemotherapy—which offered little promise for my type of cancer—I chose an alternative approach, focusing on nutrition, fasting, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and non-toxic treatments. I eliminated sugar and processed foods, knowing that cancer feeds on glucose. I embraced a holistic lifestyle, incorporating meditation, exercise, and faith into my daily routine.

I learned to lean into what I now call the Four C’s: Control, Curiosity, Courage, and Christ in me.

Control—I refused to let cancer dictate how I lived my remaining days. I took ownership of my health and choices. Curiosity—I educated myself, seeking knowledge to empower my decisions. Courage—I faced each day, determined to live fully, without fear. Christ in me—Above all, I placed my faith in God, knowing He was in control.

Through this journey, I found a new perspective on life. Cancer has a way of stripping away unnecessary things—the need for approval, the chase for success, and the worries about trivial matters. It forces you to see what truly matters: love, faith, and the people beside you.

My wife, Sonia, has been my rock. We were high school sweethearts, married at 21, and have been together ever since. She has carried the weight of this journey with unwavering strength, managing our business, caring for me, and keeping our home filled with love. Caregivers often go unnoticed in these battles, but they bear so much. I would not be here without her.

Our children have also been my greatest blessing. My daughter recently moved back home to spend more time with me. She teases me, makes me laugh, and reminds me of the beauty in everyday moments. These are the things I cherish now—the small, precious moments I once took for granted.

Despite my diagnosis, I do not feel defeated. I feel more alive than ever. I have learned that life is not measured by time but by the depth of love and gratitude we experience. Every morning when I wake up, I thank God for another day. I am not afraid. My love for life is stronger than my fear of death.

I do not know how long I have left—perhaps months, years, or even decades. But I do know this: I am alive today. And as long as I have breath, I will use my story to inspire others to live with faith, gratitude, and purpose. Cancer may have tried to write the ending of my story, but my faith in God holds the pen.

I say to those who face their battles: Do not let fear define you. Choose courage. Choose faith. Choose life.

 

The key takeaways for cancer survivors from Norman’s story include:

Faith is a Source of Strength – Norman’s journey highlights the power of unwavering faith in God, showing that trusting in Him provides strength and resilience during the most challenging battles.

The Importance of Support Systems – Having a praying and supportive spouse, like Sonia, and a strong family network makes a significant difference in navigating the challenges of illness.

Divine Record-Keeping & God’s Grace – Norman’s theological perspective emphasizes that God sees and remembers our struggles, yet His mercy and grace prevail, offering hope and reassurance.

Perseverance Through Adversity – Despite cancer trials, Norman’s life demonstrates the importance of perseverance, showing that setbacks do not define one's journey but rather the determination to keep going.

Sharing One’s Story to Inspire Others – Norman encourages other survivors to share their experiences, spreading hope and faith to those facing similar battles by telling his story.

Cherishing Life & Purpose – Surviving cancer reinforces the importance of living purposefully, appreciating each moment, and using one’s journey to uplift others.

 

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