Jim

Jim was 72 when he had some blood in his urine. This led to the diagnosis of a rare type of kidney cancer called urothelial cancer of the kidney. He had his kidney removed and has had immunotherapy to try and lower the risk of recurrence. He currently is without any evidence of disease.

When asked a few questions about his cancer journey these are his responses.

How did you find out you had kidney cancer?: I had a symptom that led to finding the tumor.

What were your first thoughts, or the first emotions you felt when you found out you had kidney cancer?: How long will I live? Concern for my family. Fear of the unknown.

Please tell us about what you do for work/occupation.: I am a retired chemical engineer. I managed various technology organizations for a large oil company.

Please tell us about what you like to do in your free time. Enter as many or as few things as you like, i.e. hobbies, past times etc, things you'd rather do instead of thinking of kidney cancer.: Spend time with family and friends. Play golf, fishing, photography. Volunteer with my church and local charities.

Please tell us about 1-2 people who helped you with your journey with kidney cancer.: My wife Bonni, my son Jay and my doctors (my internist, my oncologist and Dr Weight).

Please share the most vivid details of your kidney cancer story. Feel free to write your whole story as you remember it.: My wife and I were devastated with my diagnosis and initial outlook. The first 2 months of chemotherapy were difficult and I considered stopping treatment. Thankfully I didn't. The last several months of chemo were better. My scan following chemo showed improvement and I discussed surgery with Dr Weight. Thankfully he agreed to do it and it went well. I am now, at least for the time being if not forever, cancer-free. I am doing immunotherapy to help prevent recurrence. My wife and I are optimistic about the future.

What advice would you share with someone newly diagnosed with kidney cancer?: 

“Hang in there.”