Spenser’s Stage 4 Oral Cancer Story: Turning Trauma into Triumph Against All Odds
Spenser was diagnosed with stage 4 oral cancer. He had always been athletic and was training to be a professional bodybuilder. But in 2022, he experienced an excruciating toothache, which led him to visit the ER. Although he had the tooth removed, he still felt something was off.
Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez
As time progressed, Spenser started to feel very tired and kept having canker sores. He powered through and continued his rigorous workout routines. By January 2024, though, he could no longer dismiss his symptoms. A dental visit revealed a jarring sight in his mouth, leading to a referral to an oral surgeon, who immediately suspected cancer.
The surgeon’s suspicions proved true when Spenser was diagnosed with stage 4 oral cancer (squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue), which had spread to his neck and throat lymph nodes. To deal with a massive tumor, he underwent a grueling seven-hour surgery. The surgeon removed part of his tongue and numerous lymph nodes. The surgery was life-threatening, and his communication abilities were seriously jeopardized.
Recovering from surgery, Spenser next had to consider undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. He initially refused, but his doctors ultimately won him over. His treatment and its side effects were grueling, but Spenser’s resilience shone through. He defied expectations and refused to let his cancer defeat him.
Although Spenser survived stage 4 oral cancer, he experienced permanent kidney damage from chemotherapy and psychological scars, including PTSD and severe depression. Work became difficult, and he struggled under the pressure of his thoughts.
But Spenser rose to the occasion yet again. He found solace in boxing and embraced a new perspective on life. His story is about fighting against the odds, transforming trauma into strength, and never giving up.
Watch Spenser’s story for more about:
- The importance of health and nutrition in cancer recovery.
- How he remained resilient even during the hardest moments.
- Listening to one’s body and seeking medical help if something feels wrong.
- What he’d like other people to learn from his experience.
- Name:
- Spenser S.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 33
- Diagnosis:
- Oral Cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue)
- Staging:
- Stage 4
- Symptoms:
- Severe toothache
- Excessive fatigue
- Persistent canker sores
- Appearance of a large cyst in the mouth
- Treatments:
- Surgery: partial removal of tongue, neck dissection with flap
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for treatment decisions.
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