Becky’s Story

In December 2010, Becky was managing her usual battles with Degenerative Disc Disease and bulging discs when a flare-up sent her to her family physician. Because she hadn’t had an MRI in some time, one was scheduled. On January 4, 2011, Becky received a call that would change her life—the results of her MRI showed a growth on her right kidney.

“I almost fell over, calling out in tears to my friend. The doctor told me I needed to be seen immediately.”

After a week and a half of tests, scans, and reassurance from medical staff, Becky met her urologist, who delivered the difficult news: she had kidney cancer. Surgery was scheduled that very day. Overwhelmed with fear and emotion, Becky leaned on her husband for comfort and strength.

On January 21, 2011, surgery day arrived. Surrounded by loved ones and supported by compassionate hospital staff, Becky underwent a partial nephrectomy. Initially believed to be a small tumor confined to her kidney, it was later found to be larger and classified as a T3a tumor, having invaded the artery leading to her heart. The good news: the tumor was successfully removed.

Three years later, Becky continues her journey with gratitude and optimism. She regularly sees her oncologist, Dr. Mark Menge, and the staff at the Frauenshuh Cancer Center at Methodist Hospital, praising their care and support. During this journey, she’s made profound lifestyle changes, including losing over 100 pounds, and reflects on how her back condition, ironically, may have helped detect her cancer early.

Although her cancer carries a 50% chance of recurrence, Becky chooses to focus on the positive side: the 50% chance it stays gone. She credits her survival to the unwavering support of her husband, son, and medical team, and cherishes every moment of life she’s been given.

"I could not have done it without them. I love you both so, so much."
— Becky