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Ray LaBoeufAmerican Man Who Overcame Stage IV Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Ray LaBeouf: The American Who Defied Stage IV Squamous Cell Cancer
- Seeking a Second Opinion
- A Lack of Trust
- Finding CTCA
- A Treatment Plan
- The CTCA Experience
- An 'Inconvenient Blessing'
- A Life Filled with Gratitude
Ray LaBeouf: The American Who Defied Stage IV Squamous Cell Cancer
A Devastating Diagnosis"I remember the moment I was diagnosed with cancer like it was yesterday," said Ray LaBeouf. In the summer of 2003, LaBeouf consulted his doctor due to a suspicious lump on his neck. A biopsy revealed a benign tumor, and the plan was for surgical removal. However, during the surgery on December 26, 2003, the doctor discovered a tennis ball-sized tumor and three additional tumors in LaBeouf's neck, as well as one at the base of his tongue. On New Year's Eve, LaBeouf was diagnosed with Stage IV squamous cell cancer—the same disease that had claimed his mother's life less than a year after her diagnosis 20 years prior.
Seeking a Second Opinion
Seeking treatment options, LaBeouf consulted a local oncologist in Kansas, hoping to hear what could be done for his multiple, inoperable tumors. The oncologist recommended chemotherapy but made no mention of additional surgery.
"I'm a firm believer that the patient needs to be educated about their disease," LaBeouf said. "I've always been an advocate for someone doing their own research. When I went to seek a second opinion from one of the top oncologists in Kansas, I got a detailed plan of care. I wanted to know what else I could do to beat this cancer."
A Lack of Trust
LaBeouf began chemotherapy the following week, but he couldn't shake a feeling of uncertainty. He didn't trust the information he'd received from his oncologist. He eventually discontinued treatment and sought out an alternative clinic in Kansas that offered intravenous vitamin drips. By the end of 2004, LaBeouf was told that he needed more aggressive, conventional cancer treatment.
Finding CTCA
After researching online, LaBeouf discovered the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA). He arrived at CTCA's Midwestern Regional Medical Center in December 2004 and met with Dr. Mellijor. "I liked his bedside manner right away," LaBeouf said. "He was straightforward and told me that he would recommend chemotherapy, but that it was ultimately my decision. None of my other doctors had treated me with that kind of respect."
A Treatment Plan
LaBeouf knew he needed to do whatever it took, and he now had unwavering trust in Dr. Mellijor. His honesty and genuine compassion gave LaBeouf confidence in his decision. Meeting with his radiation oncologist, Dr. Granick, was also a breath of fresh air for LaBeouf.
"He literally sat down and took his time answering my questions," LaBeouf recalled. "He told me that I was the 'boss.' He said that if I had questions about my treatment, he wanted to hear them. To this day, I tell people that if your doctor isn't going to answer your questions, you need to find another doctor!"
The CTCA Experience
LaBeouf underwent seven rounds of chemotherapy, alternating with periods at home with his wife, Cindy, and their four-year-old son, Isaac. Each time LaBeouf returned to the hospital, Isaac feared he wouldn't come back. After learning of his son's concerns, LaBeouf met with Dr. Granick's assistant, Larry Wiggins, who answered all of Isaac's questions. The nurses also went above and beyond, leaving Isaac feeling understood and supported.
After completing chemotherapy, LaBeouf returned to CTCA in June 2005 for two months of hyperthermia treatments and radiation therapy. The hospital's additional amenities—nutrition, massage, naturopathy, acupuncture, and even mind-body medicine—were included in his care. At Cindy's urging, LaBeouf agreed to attend laughter therapy classes with Kathleen Packett. He never thought he'd become a believer in Packett's ideas, but found that the therapy had a profound impact on his outlook.
An 'Inconvenient Blessing'
LaBeouf credits CTCA with taking a "holy crap" approach to patient care. He believes that by focusing on the smaller issues, CTCA staff really make a difference.
"They even took care of my wife," LaBeouf said. "I was able to celebrate our anniversary there. My first round of chemo was during our 24th anniversary. My nurse found out and brought two slices of sugar-free chocolate cherry cake to my room so we could celebrate. She made it special."
LaBeouf refers to cancer as an "inconvenient blessing" because, while no one wants to go through it, it can open up new aspects of your life. When faced with adversity, you often discover strengths and abilities you never knew you had.
"My advice is this: lean on God and get close to him, as tough as it may be at the time," LaBeouf said. "And if you don't have a sense of humor, you better get one. It's as essential as anything."
A Life Filled with Gratitude
LaBeouf concluded his story: "It's been many years since my treatment ended. I am grateful to be here. I take care of my wife, and we live every day to the fullest as a family." He looks forward to many more memories and blessings with his family.
