What happened, in summary

In spring 2022, Xavier Sanders was placed on Air Force reserve duty after repeatedly testing positive for COVID-19. Further evaluation found a spot in his lung, and a follow-up 3 months later showed that it had doubled in size. Biopsy confirmed cancer, and a full-body scan found disease in his lungs and kidneys. His doctor described the cancer as unusually rare, and Xavier wondered whether exposure to burn pits during 14 years of military service had contributed.

Treatment with an unspecified medication caused severe light sensitivity and exhaustion, and Xavier reached a suicidal crisis. A message from a friend helped him recognize that he could be in pain and still ask for help. Later that month, he sought care at a mental-health facility and began therapy, which helped him understand emotions he had been masking.

At the latest update, the cancer in Xavier’s lungs had cleared, although he had 53% lung function and remained in treatment for cancer in his kidneys. He was taking 2 pills a day, continued to experience side effects, and had checkups every 3 months. Physically, many challenges remained, but he described himself as happier and better able to ask for support.