From “Inoperable” to Indefatigable – never stop seeking options

Jason R., 35, faced a shocking Stage IV colon cancer diagnosis in 2018 after weeks of severe cramping and blockage​. Scans showed a large colorectal tumor and metastases covering 80% of his liver​. Local doctors deemed the cancer inoperable and offered only lifelong chemotherapy​.

Determined to see his children grow up, Jason sought a second opinion at City of Hope. There, an expert team led by liver surgeon Dr. Yuman Fong devised an aggressive plan: 12 rounds of FOLFIRINOX chemo plus targeted Y-90 radioembolization shrank his tumors by over 40%​. In February 2020, surgeons performed a 12-hour operation, removing the right lobe of his liver and the primary tumor​. Jason endured more challenges – a lung metastasis ablated and a recurrence in his tailbone requiring radiation and a complex pelvic surgery​.

Through it all, he maintained unwavering optimism and even embraced a permanent colostomy as a new lease on life​. Remarkably, by late 2022 Jason achieved “no evidence of disease”​. He has been off chemotherapy for over two years and uses his second chance to advocate for others, counseling fellow patients and planning a retreat for survivors​.

Jason’s journey from a grim prognosis to NED shows the power of persistence and expert care.