Survivors and Current Patients
Celebrating the courage, resilience, and hope of those living with kidney cancer.
Ryan mentors other patients just beginning their kidney cancer journeys and continues to participate in Climb 4 Kidney Cancer events alongside Heather, celebrating resilience, community, and hope with every step.
“Keep a positive attitude and take one day at a time. This experience has changed my outlook on life drastically.” -Carlo
“This whole experience taught me to really listen to your body. Don’t ignore warning signs, and take care of yourself. Life is truly precious.” -Amanda
“Breathe deeply, buckle up, because it’s going to be a bumpy ride!”- Julie
“There is hope. Love is miraculous.” -Rita
Cancer isn't stopping Gary from hunting or fishing!
“A diagnosis does not mean it’s the end of the road for you. It’s okay to be scared and sad, but never give up hope. Find yourself an amazing team of doctors that will always prioritize your health. That’s what I did, and I will be forever grateful.” -Laura
He didn’t climb as a tourist. He didn’t climb for a medal. Graham climbed for his health, his future, and his own sense of strength.
Robby Benson Writer/Director/Actor/Author/Playwright/ Composer/Sound Engineer/University Professor (NYU)
Julie fought her cancer and then travelled to Iceland.
“Don’t let fear consume you. The first year is hard, but my faith gets me through.” -Michelle
"We each have talents and purposes to share, and we owe it to ourselves and to others to make our time here meaningful." -Rebecca
“You will be found. You’re going to discover an incredibly strong community to help you on your journey. Support and kindness will come from unexpected places — and you’ll meet many caring, compassionate people who will help you keep moving forward.” -Matt
"I am grateful—for my doctors, for my family, for the prayers of so many people, and for the Lord’s steady hand guiding me. My story is one of faith, resilience, and the power of community." -Eugene
Marilyn's tumor was just under 2 centimeters long.
"You are more than your diagnosis. Advocate for yourself. Keep asking questions. Push for answers. And keep living." -Shayna
“Join a support group, be as open as you’re comfortable. Feel the feelings, and talk about them. Cancer is scary, but it can be just a little less scary when you’re surrounded by people who get it.” -Sid
“I was scared. At 35 years of age, I was facing cancer.” -Brian
Steve and Debbie are father and daughter and they both got kidney cancer.
They only gave her a 10% chance to be alive today, but Sara has defied the odds.
Senator Hirono has blazed trails wherever she goes and now is facing a new foe, more menacing that her political opponents, stage 4 kidney cancer.
“I would encourage kidney cancer patients to look into clinical trials as an option." -Lyle
From a 1964 miracle baby to a survivor of cancer, heart surgery, and life’s toughest blows—Tony’s journey is one of resilience, hope, and music.
Duriya's family cheered her on during her recovery.
"Thinking back to the day I was told I had kidney cancer was a shock of all emotions. Why me? Then it hit me… why not me? I’m strong and determined to fight, and I have the best village on my team." -Dianne
“I was scared—but ready to get the details of how to get rid of it. I felt like I was on a mission.” -Wendy
"Look into options and trust your gut feelings before deciding which treatment to move forward with." -George
Annie is 81 years young! Living strong!
"Stay calm, find out all the information you can and get a second opinion." -Scott
“Advocate for yourself. Arm yourself with as much information about kidney cancer that you can find. Lean on family and friends and if you have someone who is willing to help you navigate your journey, consider yourself blessed. Try to stay in the light and always take care of your body and mind.” -Denise
Andrew credits his doctors for saving his life.
“Keep a positive attitude even when you are at your lowest point. Take care of your body and mind. They are both equally important.” -Greg
Jack was awarded the citizen of the year in Olmsted Falls in 2019.
Norma was honored to have a peak dedicated to her.
“Hang in there.” -Jim
“Pursue treatment with the best hospital and a highly skilled doctor skilled in the latest techniques for treating your condition.” -Robert
John- Husband, Father, Passionate Browns Fan, Not defined by his quadraplegia
Shelby was diagnosed with a very rare kidney tumor called a carcinoid tumor.
"I continue to enjoy life and look forward to the future.” -Elleni
Jeffery- Husband and Father, Golfer, Board Member Cameron Art Museum, Founder and Managing Partner Schrager Capital Management
“Find someone to hang onto for support and "ask" all the questions you need to ask. Fight for your right to beat this disease.” -Cathy
Rob's first thought when he found out about his kidney cancer was “Really? Well, that is a bummer, but let's get going to get rid of it!”
Dr. Patrick Riggs Husband, Father, System Chair of Vascular Surgery Rochester Regional Health
Jeff thanks God and tries to bless the lives of others.
"Thank you to my Heavenly Father.” -Victor
"We need to take care to listening to our bodies." -Dr. Castro
"My simple advice is don’t ever let one thing or one word define you." -Eric
Michael Mordent Retired, Now a fisherman, hunter, boater, golfer and other outdoor activities.
Caris LeVert Professional Basketball Player
"Prioritize your well-being—both physical and mental." -Ann
Patrick had a recurring kidney mass after 21 years of being cancer free.
“Do your research. Learn as much as you can about your cancer. Get a second opinion if you need to." -Donald
“Stay faithful and trust in God.” -David
Laura was diagnosed with a brain tumor that originated in her kidney.
Mark is giving his all against his kidney cancer.
Ted's story reached the top of Tian Shan Mountain.
We took Joe's story up Mt. Timpanogos
Sandy tries her best to help others who face the same challenge she has to face every day.
Peggy’s story is one of faith, courage, and renewal.
Terry loves the outdoors, loves family and sometimes loves to sit in the shade for just a minute.
Leg pain led to Richard's cancer being identified.
At 51, Muradil fearned of his kidney cancer.
In 1999, Cassie was diagnosed with kidney cancer.
“Stay active, stay hopeful, and keep doing the things you love. Every day you keep going is a victory.”- Leroy
Laurie said of her family, "I would not have made it without them!"
"I am thankful for life and for Dr. Anderson." -Larry
Kurt sends his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Stein and his amazing team for their expert care and support.
“At first, I was scared,” Julie recalls. “It felt like my world had shifted overnight.”
Trent underwent a partial nephrectomy using the cutting-edge Da Vinci Surgical Robot.
Steven and his father-in-law faced kidney cancer at the same time.
Steven is able to get more done around the house.
Sam's family got him through his treatment.
“It hasn’t been an easy climb, but I’m still hanging in there — and still climbing.” -Ryan
Rocky loves riding motorcycles and spending time with his friends and family, who’ve been by his side throughout his journey.
Pete fought 2 types of cancer.
Multiple surgeries helped Patricia beat her cancer.
Monica is deeply grateful to her family and friends for their ongoing love and support.
“Stay strong, everyone. Someday a cure will happen. Until then, I pray we all stick together and fight.” -Lori
Judy cherishes time with her family and friends.
“If possible, seek care at a medical center with great experience and reputation in the treatment of kidney cancer — like the Cleveland Clinic. The right expertise truly matters.” -Luis
Coach Jerry Kill led the Minnesota Gophers Football team from 2010 to 2015.
“I climb for kidney cancer because I can. I have a wonderful family and amazing physicians who have supported me every step of the way. I am living and loving life!” -Jennifer
With the unwavering support of her husband, JP, Janice navigated this challenging chapter with courage and resilience, finding strength in both her passions and her loved ones.
Throughout her journey, Janet drew strength and comfort from her prayer circle
Holly faced her journey with strength and hope.
“Have a support network, as people can help you get through it.” -Graham
“Listen to your doctors. Look around and get a second opinion." -Debi
"Never give up!" -Daniel
"I was in disbelief. " -Dale
Dake credits his wife for her support.
Cathy couldn’t have done it without her village of family and friends.
Brian was able to overcome his diagnosis of kidney cancer in 2008.
Brady was a 28-year-old when he was diagnosed.
Bradley had his kidney removed shortly after being diagnosed with kidney cancer.