This week, fifteen years ago, I faced a moment that profoundly disrupted the foundations of my life. What was anticipated to be a routine procedure, akin to a wisdom tooth extraction, unveiled a devastating reality: I was diagnosed with stage IVc ‘terminal’ cancer, a rare head and neck cancer known as carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. The prognosis was grim, giving me merely 2-3 months to live. Yet, here I am, a testament to what can only be described as a miraculous healing that defies medical logic.
My journey through the valleys of surgeries, medical treatments, weekly chemotherapy, daily radiation, and a radical neck dissection was arduous and fraught with pain. But in these trials, I witnessed the awe-inspiring might of God’s healing hand. It’s challenging to express the extent of my thankfulness for the divine intervention that saved my life when everything appeared hopeless.
Many people have asked me how I overcame such daunting challenges. I firmly believe that the secret lies in embracing peace in every circumstance. My faith has taught me to find serenity and joy, whether in moments of ease or trials of disease. As Philippians 4:11-13 reminds us, “I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances, I have learned the secret of being content—whether well-fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.”
My prayer for everyone reading this is that you, too, will discover the profound peace available to all of us through faith in Jesus. Despite the physical losses—muscles, glands, nerves, and lymph nodes—my body has continually healed and adapted, a process for which I am profoundly thankful. Each day is a gift, and I approach life with renewed vigor and appreciation.
I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement from so many during this strange, terrifying, yet ultimately wonderful journey. Your love and support have been my stronghold, and I am truly blessed. To all who are facing their battles, know that there is hope, and with faith, love, and perseverance, you can press on. With all my heart, thank you. Love and press on, Rich & Nikki.
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PS: As a survivor of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma stage IVc, I’ve learned about the broader landscape of cancer diagnoses in the United States. Each year, roughly 1.9 million people are newly diagnosed with cancer. Within this population, about 76,000 individuals, or 4%, are affected by head and neck cancers. Of those 5,320 people, or approximately 7%, have salivary gland tumors. A subset of these, around 192 patients or 3.6%, are diagnosed with carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, the same rare cancer I battled. Unfortunately, specific data on stage IVc cases, like mine, remains unavailable.