Mike’s Unwavering Resolve Helps Him Meet the Challenges of His Rare Cancer of the Appendix

In 2024, Mike, who hails from Dallas, was diagnosed with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), a rare cancer of the appendix. He initially experienced pain in his lower right abdomen, which he thought was appendicitis. Despite his inclination to “tough it out,” the unusual pain led him to seek urgent care treatment. He was redirected to the emergency room, where a CT scan revealed that his appendix had grown significantly. Fearing surgery costs, he hesitated about ambulance transport but was eventually taken to the hospital, where his greatest fear came true: doctors discovered a cancerous tumor on his appendix after surgery.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

The emotional toll of the rare cancer diagnosis was immense. Mike received the news through a Friday afternoon call from his surgeon, leaving him terrified and thinking about his young family. However, he embraced the challenge, despite his uncertainty about the appendix cancer’s aggressiveness or spread. Over the weekend, without concrete answers about his prognosis, he prepared himself mentally for what lay ahead.

Mike’s oncologist was methodical, undertaking extensive diagnostic procedures, and ensuring a comprehensive understanding before deciding on treatment. This process included blood tests, scans, and eventual HIPEC surgery, which involved administering chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity. Despite Mike’s athletic background, his recovery after surgery proved unexpectedly challenging, requiring him to relearn basic physical functions such as walking. Additionally, the surgery significantly impacted his digestive system, leading to issues like the overproduction of stomach acid.

Despite his rare cancer and all these trials, Mike’s resolve never wavered. He concurrently focused on recovery, which involved dietary adjustments and light physical activities, gradually rebuilding his body and health. His weight fell dramatically after surgery, but with determination, proper nutrition, and incremental physical activities, he gained back 20 pounds.

Throughout his journey, a strong support system comprising his wife and daughters proved invaluable. This support, along with a shift in perspective, enabled him to appreciate life more deeply. He began to view his diagnosis as an opportunity rather than a setback. This shift in mindset also influenced his professional life, as he redirected his fitness business towards helping cancer survivors regain both physical and mental health.

As he navigates life after his rare cancer treatment, Mike remains mindful of potential recurrence, with scheduled scans keeping him vigilant. The experience instilled in him a renewed appreciation for every moment and an unwavering belief in the body’s resilience. He advises others facing similar challenges to maintain a positive outlook, stay active, and continue moving forward, not just physically but also mentally and spiritually. His story is about resilience, transformation, and finding strength in adversity.

• Name:
  • Mike L.
• Age at Diagnosis:
  • 36
• Diagnosis:
  • Rare Cancer of the Appendix: Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) – low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm)
• Symptom:
  • Pain in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen
• Treatments:
  • Chemotherapy
  • Surgery: cytoreductive surgery

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

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