Michael was stunned to read the dreaded word ‘carcinoma’ in his report. He and his wife had to wait through the holiday season for this confirmation, which made his diagnosis even harder to take. But his family and friends rallied around him and helped him manage his emotional and logistical challenges. His wife, for example, pushed for and successfully got quicker appointments for him. 

Aside from several TURBT sessions, Michael’s treatment for stage 1 non-muscle invasive bladder cancer included BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) treatments. (Editor’s Note: BCG treatments deliver special immunotherapy drugs directly to the bladder through a catheter. They trigger an inflammatory response that prevents the tumor from returning.) These treatments came with tough side effects, like flu-like symptoms. But Michael was determined to keep his and his family’s life as normal as he could. For instance, he insisted on attending family activities even though he had to collapse into bed afterwards.

Michael’s advocacy extends beyond his personal experience. He shares his story on TikTok, offering support and information to other bladder cancer patients. He’s frank and open about his experience — the emotional toll, the constant worry with every bathroom visit, and the anxiety surrounding follow-up visits to the doctor. His strength and commitment to living happily and fully despite bladder cancer are inspiring.

Watch Michael’s non-muscle invasive bladder cancer story and take a deep dive into:

• How seeing the word “carcinoma” changed everything
• When Michael’s wife became his greatest healthcare advocate
• How he touches the lives of fellow bladder cancer patients
• The support that carried Michael through
• How his story proves that bladder cancer isn’t just an older person’s disease