Cancer survivor to help others facing similar battle
As a realtor in Asheville, Chris Smith spends his days showing clients their future homes, helping them envision the life they have to look forward to as they embark on their next chapter. As a young, healthy man with a booming business, Chris thought his own future was just as bright. That was until his world came to a crashing halt in 2019.
A brutal battle
Chris had been experiencing serious pain, with no relief, and after an internet search, quickly realized he had several symptoms of testicular cancer and called the doctor. A blood test confirmed his suspicion and he was diagnosed with stage three testicular cancer. In a matter of days, he was having surgery at Pardee. What Chris didn’t realize was just how aggressive his cancer was and the poor prognosis he was facing, with just a 20% survival rate. But, he was up for the fight. “Dr. Anthony was very upfront about the challenge that lay ahead but reassured me from the beginning that I could take it,” Chris said.
And take it he did, but his cancer journey did not come without its challenges. Pardee oncologist, Dr. Navin Anthony describes Chris’ story as an amazing one, “He had a very aggressive testicular diagnosis and did very well after his initial treatments.”
Dr. Anthony explains that because the cancer was so aggressive, Chris suffered a relapse and needed an equally aggressive form of therapy called a double bone marrow transplant. This type of treatment cannot be done locally and Chris was referred to Indiana University which specializes in this treatment for men with testicular cancer. Chris said he is grateful for Dr. Anthony’s support in working with his new doctor and for standing by his side, “Dr. Anthony quickly deferred to my doctor in Indiana without question. There were no egos but a simple commitment to helping me get better.”
Offering hope
Three years later, Chris is doing great and using the most challenging time in his life for good. He volunteers at the Pardee Cancer Center in hopes that he can be an encouragement to others facing a scary road ahead.
“It’s my duty to provide some glimmer of hope to those currently fighting,” he said.
Chris spends his days at the Pardee Cancer Center talking with patients and when the moment presents itself, shares his story, hoping to give them confidence that they too can win their fight. He said being a volunteer adds to the daily appreciation he has for life, “I am grateful for each day my eyes open. It reminds me of the challenging days I endured, which again fuels my gratitude for all the little things I used to glaze over.”
Chris is on the other side of his fight, but still routinely sees Dr. Anthony to make sure the cancer remains at bay. We’re thankful Chris is in recovery and doing well. We are even more thankful he uses his time to give back to his community and our patients. A cancer journey is such a trying time and having people like Chris, who can empathize with our patients, is a priceless gift.
If you are interested in volunteering at Pardee, fill our our volunteer application or visit our website pardeehospital.org to learn more about volunteering.
This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Man beats testicular cancer ; now helps others at Pardee Cancer Center
