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Stage 3 Kidney Cancer (ccRCC): Jeff’s Diagnosis & Recovery

Jeff K., Kidney Cancer (Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma), Stage 3, Grade 3

Symptoms: Fatigue, left flank pain, blood in urine

Treatment: Surgery (radical nephrectomy)

Jeff is Thriving After Stage 3, Kidney Cancer

From Pain to Purpose with Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC)

Jeff faced stage 3, grade 3 kidney cancer head-on. His experience began in late 2022 when he experienced a nagging pain in his left flank. Initially dismissing it as a common ailment like diverticulitis or a urinary tract infection, Jeff didn’t voice his discomfort until the pain returned—this time, accompanied by blood in his urine. A routine CT scan to investigate a suspected kidney stone revealed not just the stone but also a five-centimeter mass on his right kidney.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Jeff took this harrowing news surprisingly well. Perhaps it was his background in the medical field or maybe sheer resilience. Either way, he approached the situation methodically. After consultations, tests, and a biopsy, and despite hopes for a less severe staging, post-surgery pathology reports revealed stage 3, grade 3 kidney cancer (clear cell renal cell carcinoma or ccRCC) with renal vein involvement. 

Jeff K.

In response, Jeff leaned into his support systems—his family, his faith, and online communities. Instead of succumbing to fear, he chose empowerment: learning, sharing, and advocating.

Following a radical nephrectomy to remove his affected kidney, Jeff embraced a proactive approach to his health. Surveillance scans, daily exercise, active participation in support groups, and integrative therapies like dietary changes became his new norm. His Mediterranean-inspired diet, tailored to manage chronic kidney disease and prevent kidney stones, helps him feel his best.

Through it all, Jeff never lost sight of hope. He channeled his experiences into writing a book, One Kidney: Dealing with Kidney Cancer, and even founded a support site, The Kidney Coach. His candid reflections resonate with many survivors, offering both practical insights and emotional solidarity.

Jeff’s story isn’t about being “cured” of stage 3, grade 3 kidney cancer—it’s about thriving, adapting, and living life fully, despite the shadows that cancer can cast. Watch Jeff’s video to delve into:

  • How a routine kidney stone check revealed something far more serious.
  • The way that he turned a cancer diagnosis into an empowering experience.
  • The surprising moment he realized the full impact of his diagnosis.
  • How he created a support network for others facing similar challenges.
  • What helped him cope? Hint: It’s more than just medical treatments.

  • Name: 
    • Jeff K.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Kidney Cancer: Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC)
  • Staging:
    • Stage 3
  • Grade:
    • Grade 3
  • Age at Diagnosis:
    • 63
  • Symptoms:
    • Fatigue
    • Left flank pain
    • Blood in urine
  • Treatments:
    • Surgery: radical nephrectomy
Jeff K.
Jeff K.
Jeff K.
Jeff K.
Jeff K.

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


Jeff K.
Thank you for sharing your story, Jeff!

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