Paul’s lung cancer journey began during routine follow-up scans for his throat cancer when radiologists discovered a small nodule in his left upper lobe. After two years of monitoring, the growing nodule was confirmed as a new, unrelated cancer. Rather than accepting the recommended lobectomy that would have ended his surfing lifestyle, Paul advocated for SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy) – a precise, targeted radiation treatment that maps tumors using CT scan technology.
What makes Paul’s story unique is his decades-long relationship with medical technology and self-advocacy. For nearly 30 years, he has collaborated with medical device manufacturers, even serving as a test subject to help train employees on new equipment. This background gave him the confidence to push for SBRT when faced with lung cancer, despite initial resistance from his medical team.
After successfully convincing his oncologist to convene a consortium of physicians to discuss his case, Paul underwent SBRT. The result? No evidence of disease (NED) and the ability to continue surfing – exactly what he’d fought for.
“This is revolutionary treatment,” Paul explains. “The technology is only five years old, but I am certain it is going to become more prevalent. Because they were able to catch it at the source before it bloomed or spread, all that is left is a charcoal residue. And while my physical recovery was remarkably smooth, I want people to know that any cancer diagnosis creates huge pressure on the patient’s mind, body and spirit. Talk to your doctor: there are ways of making it better.”
Today, Paul remains cancer-free and continues to surf, serving as a powerful example of how innovative treatments and patient self-advocacy can lead to better outcomes. His story highlights the importance of:
- Early detection through regular screening
- Patient self-advocacy in treatment decisions
- The potential of innovative cancer treatments like SBRT
- Balancing quality of life with treatment choices
- The mental health aspects of cancer survivorship
