Two years of surviving and thriving

When I was first diagnosed and in the surviving stage, I found it encouraging to see people further down the road than me actually thriving.

So, I hope this is encouraging for us all GBM Survivors and Thrivers.

Surviving stage: I was diagnosed  with GBM methylated/wildtype in august 2019 a few weeks later I had a full resection , with the ABTC-1603 cold virus injected into the tumor cavity during surgery  Completed 6 weeks soc + immunotherapy in October 2019. Completed 5/23 TMZ in November 2020. On 8/13/21 my 24 month MRI showed I am Two years cancer free. I feel that I am thinking more clearly with my engineering work (I went back after 6 months post surgery), and every month seems to show more cognitive improvement.

Thriving stage: I returned to work (wireless network engineering) in February 2020. That was too soon, but it became like therapy to get my mind back in shape. By January 2021 (2 months after finishing 5/23) I felt my energy normalizing, and lost 20 lbs by returning to normal activity. As the weather started getting warm, I started doing 1 mile walks. I recently joined CrossFit, and recommitted to Weight watchers. I also completed level 1 chaplain certification. And a career development certification. Exercise and healthy eating continues to be a challenge requiring recommitment on a regular basis. My MRIs will now go from every 2 months to every 3.

My faith has kept me sane and strong. My faith community has cared for my family in loving ways that have sustained us in the most challenging times. I share this to encourage others. Thriving for you will look different than for me. Wherever we are at, there is always another level. Cling to faith and keep on keeping on.