Update
(Previous updates may be viewed in Marc's Archive.)
September 1, 2014 - Update 21
Hello and thank you for visiting my web site!!
It has been some time since I posted an update. If you are a new visitor, I’d like to start with a summary update:
My name is Marc Alan Shapiro and I BEAT CANCER. Just over 7 years ago I had swollen lymph nodes in my armpit, was feeling awful and went to the hospital. During surgery to examine the lymph nodes, due to lung and breathing issues, I went into acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and was in an induced coma for two weeks. Doctors suspected cancer, and after a blast of chemo my lungs started to clear up -- I awoke to news that I had cancer - Stage 4 peripheral T-cell gamma delta (non-Hodgkin’s) lymphoma, one of the rarest, most aggressive forms of cancer. Doctors have little experience with this form of cancer, and I was told that I needed to realize that the prognosis was very grave. I went through regular sessions of chemo for 7 months (GDP/CHOP), and after finally finding a stem cell donor match from Germany, began the transplant journey. My wonderful donor was an 8/10 match, and the particular markers that correlated for us were actually the worst match that can be given to a recipient. Still I am SO VERY grateful to my donor, Ena. Prior to the transplant --3 days of high dose chemo then 3 days of full body radiation, then the precious stem cell transplant.
During recovery, I was off work as a fire fighter for two years. During those years, with the support of family and friends, and an incredible mother, I worked hard to build physical strength, spiritual strength, and mental agility. My sister Linnea was there for me every step of the way. I experienced very little GVHD (rejection) which was a shock for my doctors. Cancer free now for 7 years on May 11, 2014!! I have been back to work stronger than ever and have recently been promoted to Lieutenant at the Vancouver Airport Firehall.
The blessings continue. In 2011, I married beautiful Pamela Jacek, who has been my rock.
I want this site to be a place of inspiration, education, and a place where visitors can ask as many questions as they like! (I am an open book). Through the entire cancer experience I met so many wonderful people and was surrounded by the most loving family. I think the power of positivity was the reason I kicked cancer’s ass.
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME with any questions you might have about your journey or the journey of a loved one, or to tell me your story! I will respond. Sending positive thoughts to everyone who visits my site. I want to thank my Aunt Bonnie who coordinated the info for this website. Thank you to Josie Byington who created the website design, and to Ian Byington who hosts it on his server – Thank you everyone so much for your ongoing caring support and help!
Marc Shapiro
top
