If I was given a dire cancer prognosis, I probably wouldn’t know exactly what to do in the beginning. I would probably just let my parents or the doctors decide what would be the best treatment for me. I may do nothing and make the assumption that it’s my time to go. I know for a fact that I would be scared and figure that I would die sooner or later. I may just go through with the Chemo Therapy, Radiation or Surgery. However after reading about James “Rhio” O’ Connors struggle with cancer and discovering that my younger sister was recently diagnosed with cancer, I know that I’ll take more approaches towards solving this health crisis.
James “Rhio” O’Connor’s story inspires me in many ways. James “Rhio” O’Connor’s story doesn’t just inspire me in overcoming difficult medical circumstances but overcoming all difficult circumstances. He’s proven to me that no matter how difficult a situation is for someone, there’s always a way to beat the odds with determination, faith, knowledge and confidence. He’s also proven to me that intensive research goes along way; such as countless hours in the library, speaking with various doctors, researchers and patients of the same diagnose. The story of James “Rhio” O’Connor also inspires me on the importance of being educated; especially if you’re dealing with a health problem and you don’t know the symptoms or cause of it. His story most importantly inspires me to have more faith that my sister will get through her stages of cancer and become healthier in the near future.
If I faced the same challenges that O’Connor faced, the first step that I would take is to ask the doctors all of the options that are available for me. After hearing all of the options, I would then ask the doctors what option would they prefer and then ask my parents what they think would be best for me. After hearing everybody’s response, I would take a second to think about what I think would be the best solution for me. Next, I would do some research on the solution that I have chosen. I would check with other patients who’ve gone through the procedure that I’ve choose and get their feedback on the process. I’ll ask them questions; such as “How did they feel about choosing their procedure?, How did they prepare for the procedure they choose?, How did their family and friends feel about their decision?, How did they feel about their own decision?, How long did the procedure take?, How did they feel as they’re going through the procedure? Was the procedure worth it and How much did it cost?”
After asking all of the questions, I would then continue to do research on the procedure. I would search for symptoms of the procedure and how many patients have actually survived the process. I would look for how long does the procedure usually take and the cost of the procedure. I’ll find information on a variety of therapies that are offered as well as the philosophies and theories behind them. I’ll also find specific details on the therapies long term and short term side effects. Besides conducting research on my chosen procedure, I’ll still continue to find more in dept information on the Chemotherapy, Radiation and Surgery.
After doing some research, I’ve discovered that James Rhio O’Connor was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma at the age of 61. The pleural mesothelioma was caused by Rhio’s exposure to asbestos when he was younger. James Rhio had less than a year to live and surgery wasn’t a possibility due to the position of the tumor near his spine and the chemotherapy would have decrease his quality of life and not significantly improve his life years. After hearing this news, O’Connor formulated a regimen of over 100 supplements a day, changed his eating habits, practiced mind-body medicine and just so happened to survive for 7 ½ years. I’ve discovered that Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that’s established from the protective lining that covers many of the body’s internal organs; such as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma is often always caused by exposure to asbestos and can be found in the peritoneum, the heart, pericardium or tunica vaginalis.
In closing, once again Rhio’s story inspires me to have faith that I can overcome any of life’s challenges with knowledge, confidence and a strong belief. James “Rhio” O’Connor ‘s story also reminds me the importance of being educated and how far simple research can go. Besides his inspiring story, I’ve already discussed the steps that I would take if I were given a dire cancer prognosis. I’ve mentioned how I would conduct my research and decide on an informed decision when choosing a treatment. I also provided the reader with some brief information on the cancer “mesothelioma” and the life of Rhio O’Connor. In conclusion this is what I’ll do if I faced the same challenges that Rhio faced.
By: Prue, Ronald
