We climbed the Middle Teton for Jim!
Survivor Spotlight: Jim Spry
Diagnosis Age: 72
Years Since Diagnosis: 1
Current Status: Cancer-Free (No Evidence of Disease)
Discovering the Diagnosis
Jim’s kidney cancer journey began after noticing a symptom that prompted medical testing. The results revealed kidney cancer — news that left him and his wife, Bonni, devastated. “My first thoughts were, How long will I live? and What will happen to my family?” he recalls. “It was pure fear of the unknown.”
Treatment Journey
Jim underwent a challenging treatment path that included chemotherapy, followed by surgery and immunotherapy. “The first two months of chemo were difficult — I even thought about stopping,” he admits. “Thankfully, I didn’t. The last few months were better, and my scan showed improvement. When Dr. Weight agreed to do the surgery, I felt hope again.”
The surgery went well, and today Jim is cancer-free. He continues immunotherapy to help prevent recurrence and remains optimistic about the future.
Life Beyond Cancer
A retired chemical engineer, Jim spent his career managing technology organizations for a large oil company. Now retired, he finds joy in spending time with his family and friends, playing golf, fishing, and practicing photography. He’s also active in his church and volunteers with local charities — giving back to his community whenever he can.
Support and Gratitude
Jim credits his recovery and positive outlook to the unwavering support of his wife Bonni, his son Jay, and his exceptional care team — including his internist, oncologist, and Dr. Weight.
“My wife and I are optimistic about the future,” he says.
Words of Wisdom
Jim’s advice for others facing a kidney cancer diagnosis is simple yet powerful: “Hang in there.”
Jim's Medal at the top of the Middle Teton, 12,803 feet above sea level
Brig coming up the steep glacier
Jim and his wife in the Alps
The Grand Teton from the top of the Middle Teton
Our campsite covered in snow and ice July 2nd
View of the Grand from the Lower Saddle, we didn't know the storm was coming
The ram symbolizes strength and agility in dangerous and tenuous paths