Cancer Survivors' Spot

“God, may your love be upon us as we place our hope in you”

Welcome to Cancer Survivor's Spot!

Place your hopes in God and allow His love to shower you.

In 1995, cancer was discovered in my prostate gland by virtue of an increase in my PSA level. This was very devastating to me, especially after it was confirmed by biopsy.

My first thought was, "this is a death sentence". I believe it could have been if I didn't have faith and the will to live. Also, the love of my wife and children. Thanks to God, the prayers of family and friends, and the doctors, a successful radical prostatectomy was performed. The cancer was declared in remission following my next post-operative exam.

After my recovery I was determined to find a way to contribute to cancer research and help raise awareness of this dreaded disease. This website was created to raise funds, through sales. I am committed to this goal.

A different type of cancer invaded my body in the year 2000. It was in my lung, the lower left lobe. That part of my lung was removed, which arrested that cancer.

Again, I thought, "this is terrible" However, the things I've learned from my cancer support group during the past years, helped me cope. Support groups are very important for your survival. Check with your hospital information desk or The American Cancer Society to find our time and places of established groups you can connect with.

In 2006 cancer invaded my body again. A mass was found on my right kidney. On February 22, 2006 the tumor was removed, along with 20% of my kidney, to assure that the cancer was completely taken away.

In February 2007 a mass was found on my left kidney. After careful consideration and consultation with my urologist and radiologist it was determined the mass would be removed using laparoscopic surgery.

Today I am recovering well in all areas. My doctors have assured me the cancers I've had did not spread. Each cancer was of a diiferent variety.

I will continue to pray and work toward contributing to cancer research so the journey can continue towards the cure necessary to beat this monster. If there is anyone out there who would like to join me and my group to help make this dream a reality please do.

Thank You for Visiting Cancer Survivor's Spot!!

As a three-time cancer survivor, self determination, the support received from loved ones, and friends are critical. The medical expertise, and confidence of my doctors and the blessings of the Almighty Father have allowed me to be here to tell our stories. My goal is to raise awareness, knowledge, promote research, and find a cure.

Thank you and may God bless you. Be sure to read the stories from a Loved One or a Survivor, and consider giving a gift of love to your loved ones.

Staying Positive Staying Strong

Dallas resident Raymond Williams was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1995. Trusted doctors on the medical staff at Baylor's Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center at Dallas helped him understand the multiple treatment options. After discussing treatment options with Kathryn, his wife of 55 years, they decided to proceed with a prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland)."I'm not a gambling man," says Mr. Williams. "I said, 'Let's do it!"

In the 12 years since his prostate cancer diagnosis, Mr. Williams also has successfully battled cancers of the lung and kidney. Through it all, Mr. Williams and his wife have regularly attended the Prostate Cancer Education and Support Group at the Virginia R. Cvetko Patient Education Center at Baylor Dallas. Thier initial goal was to learn more about prostate cancer in general. Along the way, they've both made many friends. "Listening to other patients and their spouses," says Mrs. Williams, "has helped me to learn how to care for Raymond and help him in his recovery period." Most patient's spouses regularly attend the support group meetings, Mrs. Williams says. "A support group also gives the spouse the tools to know how to deal with bad moments," says Mr. Williams. "Sometimes, as the patient, I may be irritable. when that happens, Kathryn understands it's not me talking, but the cancer."

"We all support each other," says Mr. Williams. "Today, a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence, although in my experience, many people (those diagnosed with cancer and those without) still believe it is. We encourage each other to stay positive and to not dwell on our cancer. Having a strong support group, including your spouse, is key to living a full life after a cancer diagnosis," believes Mr. Williams.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Williams work hard to stay active and positive. They encourage everyone touched by cancer to participate in some type of support group. "A support group restores your faith and confidence in yourself, your doctors, and in life itself," says Mr. Williams. "The Cvetko Center provides a world of information," says Mrs. Williams, "and everyone treats you like family.'

"Being part of the Prostate Center Support Group is a great feeling," says Mr. Williams. "Every day my goal is to stay positive and stay strong. I don't think about illness; I just enjoy life as it comes. And I'm able to do that with the strength of support I get from my group."

For more information about the Prostate Cancer Education and support Group, please call (214)820-2608