Numerous tests including endoscopy and CT scans revealed that he had esophageal cancer, that had spread to multiple lymph nodes throughout his chest and abdomen.
“It was the worst day of my life. I immediately started fearing the worst-case scenario,” said Brian. “I was 48 years old. I always ate reasonably well and was physically active. I was never a smoker or a drinker. I just never thought that something like this could happen to me.”
Brian started treatment immediately at the Lowell General Hospital Cancer Center, under the care of Dr. Anasuya Gunturi, Chief of Oncology.
“Stage 4 esophageal cancer is generally considered to be a terminal illness, with a median survival of roughly one year,” said Dr. Gunturi. “But Brian’s case was extremely unusual. His disease responded particularly well to treatment.”
Brian’s treatment included both chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Although it was working, the therapy took a physical toll. He lost almost 50 pounds over seven months, completely changed his diet and exercise routine, and developed neuropathy in his hands and feet--a side effect of chemotherapy. But through it all, he stayed true to his treatment plan and over the next two years, remarkably, repeated CT scans revealed no visible signs of cancer in his body.
A setback
Brian's health took another turn in November 2024 when he received a diagnosis of a brain tumor that had metastasized from his initial cancer. Undeterred, he underwent successful neurosurgery and radiation therapy. For the past 10 months, his brain MRIs and CT scans have continued to come back clean, with no signs of recurrent cancer. Brian attributes his ability to bounce back to his focus on controllable aspects of his life, including exercise, nutrition and nurturing personal relationships. “From the start, I was adamant that I would not let cancer define me,” he said. “I’m more determined than ever to live my best life.”
“As of today, Brian appears to be cancer-free,” said Dr. Gunturi. “And despite everything he has been through over the past three years, he continues to maintain an upbeat attitude, always smiling, and spreading positivity to everyone around him.”
A new kind of challenge
With his prognosis good, Brian took on a very different kind of challenge recently. He trained for and finished a Spartan Race—a 5K race with 20 obstacles—at Fenway Park.
“When I started training for the race, I was confident I’d be able to finish it. It was really tough, but I’m proud of myself for accomplishing it,” said Brian. “I want to inspire and give hope to other cancer patients in a similar situation to me.”
“He is truly defying the odds, both in his longevity following his diagnosis and in his ability to attempt a physically demanding race like this after everything he has been through,” said Dr. Gunturi. “Research has shown a link between mental and physical health, and for Brian, positivity was definitely a factor in reducing stress on his body. But no matter the adversity he has faced, Brian is always just his same self: full of joy, positivity and gratitude.”
“I have learned from experience that there are physical and emotional aspects to cancer,” said Brian. “It’s a constant struggle. But I remain hopeful and grateful for modern medicine. Dr. Gunturi is both my oncologist and a dear friend. She, and my entire medical team, have saved and extended my life.”
While there is no way to know what the future may bring, Brian prefers to live in the present.
I’m not ready to leave yet. I want to live. There is still so much more in store for me and I fully intend to embrace it.”
