Thirteen years ago, I received a devastating diagnosis of stage IVc ‘terminal’ cancer during a minor surgical procedure similar to a wisdom tooth extraction. The rare head and neck cancer, carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, was expected to end my life within 2-3 months. However, through a grueling treatment regimen of surgeries, medical procedures, weekly chemotherapy, and daily radiation, including a radical neck dissection, God miraculously healed my body in a way that defied medical explanation.

Many have asked me how I survived cancer and what secret I attribute my survival to. I firmly believe that the key to surviving any trauma, drama, suffering, or tragedy is to find peace in every situation. With faith, we can find contentment and satisfaction in any circumstance, whether in ease or disease. Philippians 4:11-13 says that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us and that we can find peace in every situation with God’s help.

I pray that whoever reads this will seek and find the peace that is available to us all. Although I lost many muscles, glands, nerves, and lymph nodes during the surgical procedures, my body continues to heal and compensate for what was lost. I am grateful and excited about life!

I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all who supported and encouraged me during this journey. It was strange, horrible, wonderful, and incredible, and I feel like the luckiest person alive. Love and keep moving forward, Rich & Nikki.