Deb’s Journey: Finding Strength After Unexpected News

When Deb Smith went in for a routine CT scan, she never imagined it would change her life. The scan was meant to check something entirely unrelated—but instead, doctors discovered kidney cancer.

“It was an accident,” Deb recalls. “I had a CT scan for another reason and they found the cancer.”

A Double Diagnosis

At 62 years old, the diagnosis came as a complete shock. Further scans revealed even more startling news: not only did Deb have kidney cancer, but she also had lung cancer.

“It was very unexpected to hear those results. Even more scary when they told me there were two cancers. My husband had passed away from lung cancer in 2003, and my daughter had just been declared nine months cancer-free when I was diagnosed. I couldn’t believe cancer was striking our family again.”

Facing Treatment with Courage

Despite the fear and disbelief, Deb faced her diagnosis head-on. She underwent surgery and, today, she is cancer free — with no evidence of disease.

Family as a Source of Strength

Through it all, Deb drew her strength from her family, especially her children — David, Stacey, and Shelby — who stood beside her every step of the way.

Outside of appointments and recovery, Deb finds peace in her favorite pastimes: gardening and spending time with her granddaughter, the little light who reminds her to focus on joy, not fear.

Deb’s Advice for Others

When asked what advice she’d offer to others newly diagnosed with kidney cancer, Deb simply says:

“You never expect it, but you are stronger than you think. Lean on the people who love you, take it one step at a time, and don’t lose hope.”

A Story of Resilience and Hope

Deb’s story is one of resilience, love, and unexpected strength — a reminder that even in life’s most uncertain moments, hope can take root and bloom.