Patient story · Shared with permission
“Learning to live instead of waiting to die”
Mindy — stage IV breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body
For Mindy, one of the hardest parts of stage IV breast cancer was constant joint and foot
pain. Some days, just standing up or walking across a room was too much. Pain medicines dulled the
pain, but they left her sleepy and cut off from her family. She began to prepare for the idea that
she might not have much time left.
Looking for answers, she reached Dr. Zhang through X. He shared what his research had taught him
and suggested an approach she could discuss with her cancer doctors. She took the ideas to her own
team. Together, they decided what was right for her. Over time, the severe pain that had ruled her
days eased a great deal — and she could focus on living, not just getting through the day.
Five years on, she treasures time with her family. She sews, quilts, and paints — and she hikes in
Yosemite National Park. A line she added to her X profile sums up the change: “Learning to
live instead of waiting to die.”
“Most importantly, keep living.”
— Mindy, from her written account
Patient story · Published with permission
Lee: the turnaround — and the loss
Written by Tracey, about her husband Lee — stage IV kidney cancer
When Lee's cancer became advanced, his wife Tracey watched cachexia — severe loss of weight,
muscle, and strength — take hold day by day. His body seemed to disappear before her eyes, even
with all the care he was getting. They had two young children who needed their father, so she
refused to stop searching. Late-night reading in patient communities led her to Dr. Zhang's work
on cachexia and the immune-system problems behind it.
Lee's doctor approved an approach based on those ideas. Within five days, Lee had gained two
pounds. Over the next weeks he regained weight and strength, and began enjoying life again.
Stronger, he was able to restart immunotherapy (treatment that helps the immune system fight
cancer). His tumor responded. His scans improved. Real improvement began to feel possible.
“He is gaining weight. I am so thankful. It is nice to see his muscles returning! I didn't think it was ever possible.”
— Tracey, during Lee's recovery
Then, just as recovery seemed within reach, Lee developed a pericardial effusion — fluid building
up around the heart. In Tracey's account, the problem was not found and treated as fast as it
needed to be. By the time emergency steps were taken, it was too late. Lee died — not, as Tracey
writes, because the cancer took him, but because a treatable problem was caught too late.
She is still grateful for what the turnaround gave them: real extra time, strength regained, and
precious family memories. She asked for their story to be shared so other families keep searching.
“Do not stop searching for answers… Hope matters.”
— Tracey, closing her account of Lee's story
Quoted word for word from private messages sent to Dr. Zhang. No surnames, handles, or other identifying details are shown.
