Brian’s cancer journey began in late September 2022 when his wife, Melissa, tested positive for COVID-19.
On October 10, both Brian and their daughter Annalia tested positive as well, leading them to reschedule their family vacation to Disney World for May 2023.
In early November, Brian discovered a large lump on his right tonsil and asked Melissa to check it. Her shocked reaction was, What the EFF is that? That was a surreal moment, Brian noted.
Concerned, Brian contacted his primary care physician, suspecting it might be a lingering effect of COVID-19. He met with the physician and he suggested it was nothing serious and would likely resolve on its own with warm saltwater gargles, advising him to follow up on February 2, 2023.
After a quick assessment in early February, the second doctor referred Brian to an ENT specialist. However, the earliest appointment available was on May 17, which conflicted with their Disney vacation. Brian successfully rescheduled for mid-June, when he was diagnosed with HPV-attributed Tonsil Cancer, and by early July, he underwent a right tonsillectomy.
I had an incredible OR team that removed a 4 cm tumor (walnut size) from my tonsil. I was then referred for additional treatments, Brian shared.
His second surgery took place on August 14, where more cancerous tissue was removed near his sinus cavity, along with 27 lymph nodes from the right side of his neck. The surgery lasted four and a half hours, and he stayed in the hospital for four days, though he was initially informed to expect an average stay of 5 to 10 days.
In September, Brian focused on healing, met with the Tumor Board, and was fitted for a radiation mask. By early October, he began a six-week course of radiation.
On April 18, he received the results from his first PET scan post-radiation, which came back negative.
The support from my wife and family helped me immensely during this difficult time. My employer was very accommodating with a temporary work schedule to help provide for my family. However, there are many cancer patients and survivors facing their battles alone, Brian emphasized. Let’s be there for them, for all the brave souls confronting this terrible disease. My journey of healing continues… Thank you.
