Patient Story Videos

No one fights cancer alone. And for every one cancer patient, there is an army of cancer warriors who have been there, too…who know what it's like to live with a cancer diagnosis. In these "Me, Too" videos produced by Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the REAL cancer experts – fellow cancer survivors – report from the front lines and share the details of their experiences, including their challenges, setbacks and victories, on the journey toward healing and hope.

5:10

Lung cancer survivor, Kevin, discusses coming to Roswell Park for treatment. He details going through chemotherapy, and has words of inspiration for others who may be going through similar situations.

5:41

Brenda lived a healthy, active life until she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. In this video, Brenda shares her initial reaction of fear and disbelief following the diagnosis, as well as the physical struggles she encountered. Brenda also describes what she's learned since then, and how she feels today, as a result of treatments at Roswell Park.

7:43

Rectal cancer survivor, Ellen, came to Roswell Park seeking a second opinion after learning she had a large tumor on her colon. Ellen discusses the operations she underwent, including one via the da Vinci® Surgical System. She also describes her 10-month treatment period and how, with the help of her team of physicians at Roswell Park, she is now in cancer remission.

7:18

Breast cancer survivor, June, didn't receive an accurate diagnosis until she came to Roswell Park and met Dr. Stephen Edge. In this video, she shares her story about the operations she underwent, the discovery of additional tumors, and the cancer treatments she received.

7:27

Jenna talks about the support she received from both her family and Roswell Park upon being diagnosed with lymphoma. She details the wide range of emotions she felt after her diagnosis, and how both the patients and staff at Roswell Park helped her cope. Jenna also has advice for others who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer.

8:49

Cancer survivor, Aaron, was misdiagnosed several times before sarcoma was discovered in his arm. Aaron talks about the shock he felt after learning he had cancer. He goes into detail about treatment options at Roswell Park including his chemotherapy sessions, and the mental and physical side effects he experienced from chemo.

10:12

Chet is a leukemia survivor who is now in remission. He became increasingly concerned with the sudden, large bruises he started to experience from minor bumps. After being diagnosed with leukemia, Chet came to Roswell Park for chemotherapy treatment. He describes chemotherapy's physical side effects and how he felt while waiting for a bone marrow transplant. Chet also shares how he managed to stay mentally strong and has a message to those in similar situations.

6:41

Lawrence is completely free of lung cancer following the care he received at Roswell Park. Here, he describes his experience receiving treatment and surgery from Roswell Park's radiation and surgical teams. Today, Lawrence is once again healthy and ready to return to his job.

8:03

Not only is Mike a survivor of throat and tonsil cancer, he is also now 96 percent free of prostate cancer. Mike received both diagnoses within two years and came to Roswell Park to have both cancers treated. Roswell Park's da Vinci® Surgical System was used to treat his prostate cancer, and Mike discusses the impact the operation has made on his life today.

7:36

After Joanne was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer, she was immediately referred to Dr. Boris Kuvshinoff II. Joanne describes how Dr. Kuvshinoff helped her to feel at ease upon arriving at Roswell Park. She also shares how she was able to maintain a positive attitude while being treated during chemotherapy. Joanne also discusses managing the financial aspect of her recovery, with the assistance of Roswell Park.

8:47

Wayne went 20 years in a row without taking a sick day until he received a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In this video, he talks about the various types of treatment he received and how he was able to remain mentally strong.

4:52

Jim wasn't very concerned after noticing a small spot on his chest. However, a biopsy revealed that Jim had melanoma. He explains just how dangerous that spot really was and how the diagnosis has impacted his family.

5:22

A self-described fighter, Tom shares his amazing story about taking on five different types of cancer. With the help of Roswell Park, Tom has already beaten breast, bladder, and colon cancer, and fully plans on beating his bone and prostate diagnoses as well.

6:30

Gina never saw her father cry until the day she was diagnosed with lung cancer. His vulnerability confirmed the seriousness of her situation. She talks about the importance of a strong support system during this life-changing experience. 

9:56

As Val prepared for her senior year of high school, she received a shocking diagnosis of aplastic anemia. With the help of Roswell Park and her brother Scott, she was able to find a perfect match and get a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. 

3:34

Suzanne’s initial diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia left her with 3-5 years to live. Now, 12 years later, she credits her grandchildren and the strong support system at Roswell Park for giving her hope and the strength she needs to keep fighting.