Thank you Ken for sharing your story. You are a hopeful realist, not a pessimist. I love your attitude. The more we share. the more we know, the closer we get to beating this monster called cancer. you my friend are part of the solution.
Jaqueline, you need to be more of a realist. Cancer is not a "monster." Cancer results from a glitch in one's own immune system, causing faulty cells that are normally killed off, to live and grow into tumors. It is important to stay scientific about it, and really understand it, if one wants to survive it. Those who become immature and hyper-emotional about cancer, usually die from it, be cause their emotions keep them from making their best treatment decisions.
@@jacquelinedelouche4885 GI issues with chronic diarrhea was precursor to my friends diagnosis of Pancreas Cancer which spread to intestines. She let her symptom go too long before getting to a doctor. I lost my friend last July. Advocate for yourself always
HEY GUYS... Ken here. I'm just now trying to get to your comments, and I thank you all so much for chipping in with your thoughts, reactions and words of either advice or encouragement. This interview was recorded back in August, FYI. The number 1 reason I wanted to partner with The Patient Story was to offer some hope and maybe touch someone who needed a boost. I will do my best to eventually respond to all of you who have asked questions or shown support. blessings >> ken ❤
Did you try alternatives? Currently curing my dog and my sister with stuff you can buy on the internet for $500. Highly effective, it doesn't cure all types but seems to work for the majority of can sir types.
@ken.himalayas I suggest you research it, I'm not kidding. 20 days ago the vet said my dog had a week left, her whole chest cavity filled with a huge two-more on her spleen. We started her on treatment that night. A few nights we thought she wouldn't make it through the night but now she has made a huge turnaround, like a new dog. Hundreds of thousand of people are saying the same thing. Unfortunately I can't tell you what it is here, you know the rules...
My husband was 55 when he was had his colon surgery for colon cancer. This was 5 years after he donated his kidney to me. 6 months later it was found in his liver. The liver surgeon removed the cancerous part. This was 2005. He’s 75 now and very healthy. God bless you and I’m sure your life will go the same direction. 🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻
Thank god for your husband health. Please was your husband liver functioning right during these period using standard lab blood test and did he use FIT test b4 the colonoscopy ? Thanks
@@Itsmemrsmoore How is God awesome? My father died at 55 from colon cancer. He was a good man, and a loyal catholic. My sister died from lung cancer. If I were a believer, I would be angry he didn't spare my loved ones. God not existing is the only thing that makes sense. 😮
@ I’m not hear to argue about my beliefs ma’am and I’m so sorry for your loss. Everything both good and bad happens for a reason and usually we don’t know why, but God is still in control. Be blessed!!
My father was also 59 when he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, and it started with a mere stomachache in January '19 and got diagnosed May had surgery but wasn't able to make it along the way and passed October same year. I felt bad and cried when he said, "I still want to live and visit/see you in Canada with grandkids." It's terrible how this disease took the lives of many, especially our loved ones. 😭 I, too, have an early stage of cervical cancer prior to my dad's diagnosis and in full remission. But, few symptoms are showing now and will get an u/s this Thursday. Hopefully, everything is fine.🙏 Praying for your complete healing Ken!🙏❤️
I presently have Stage 3 B " High Risk" nonevasive rectal cancer. I was first diagnosed with diverticulitis. As time went on, it was obvious things weren't getting better. 9 mos later, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer on Oct 11 of 2024. I just finished the second chemo treatment. I have a colostomy as well. After I finish chemo/ radiation then I will have surgery to remove what is left of the tumor. Godspeed to you, sir.
@@pm2886 yes thank you for that comment... family relationships aren't magical. you have to work hard to love and respect each other when many times it would be easier to cut and run. :))
it's what especially we american men do, partly bcuz now we don't want to deal w/ the b.s. and over-the-top hassles of using health insurance.!!! Add that to male tendency to not use medical pro's ,and we have so many midlife men dying now! That's reality in america where we spend over 2X what our peer nations spend and we have worse outcomes
Get well, dude, from a fellow expat type. Many people have come back from worse. Watched this in a cab in Taiwan. Just watching the subtitles because I'd just dropped my earphones in a puddle. My dad had ulcerative colitis and his dad died of colon cancer in the 1960s. I'm 40 and I live kinda hard. Got scoped a couple years ago but good reminder to maybe do it yearly if possible. Best wishes to you, and keep your head right. You got this.
Some docs have a response, such as telling you to get your funeral scheduled, and another doctor is very positive and manages to yield a good outcome. Speaking from experience with a close family member. Kudos to Mayo Clinic for doing an asap surgery.
You're amazing, Ken! I love your attitude and I so appreciate your realism but hopefulness. It's so important to get multiple opinions, listen and listen from other patients, do your own discerning research. You have your family to thank for getting you to the Mayo doctors. Just goes to show to seek multiple opinions and enough information to make a very informed decision. I wish you only the best!
Your story is amazing! The odds were really stacked against you. Including your heart condition. But you were guided through a series of surgeries and chemo. You look amazing! This will give people who may be feeling despair, so much hope.
yeah, the endocarditis was a massive hurdle, which kinda got edited out of the story. it was the main reason why very few GI surgeons were keen on taking me on.... thus the mayo thing. thank you :)
@@ken.himalayascurious what chemo you were given. And what the type of cancer was that you had / gave? I was 49, June of 23. Trip to er for fever and low right belly pain revealed 10cm tumor in my colon. Hepatic flexure area by my liver. Almost completely occluded. Scans showed no other signs of metastasis. Went to university of michigan for a right hemicolectomy. No bag. But guts were slow to start working again so they gave me a CT on day 5 after surgery. For the first time the radiologist noted a few abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes that were "prominent" meaning bigger than they should be. Went to oncology in Kalamazoo MI. Got out on chemo. Ignored the lymph nodes and called me 3b. Then after 4 cycles they tested my cea and it had gone up. So stat CT. Lymph nodes bigger than they were after surgery. Needly biopsy confirmed same cancer from colon in lymph nodes. Cancer still only in lymph nodes (maybe some in my lungs but they are too small to rest and Dr says even if it is cancer it won't cause me trouble for years). Wasted 6 months on immunotherapy while cea went up and up. Now on Fulferi. And Mvasi. And 5fu. Ugh
Ps. Today is my 51st birthday. Not sure how your video got in my TH-cam feed. It's the first colon cancer patient video I have watched. Almost clicked off it before it got started. The regimen I am on is holding it. But not really shrinking it. And I did the genetic testing too. They said my cancer occurred 'sporadically' and not as a result of genetics. It was a adenoma polyp that went undetected and mutated to cancer.
Ken you are truly an inspiration. Your attitude is amazing, I can feel your light and positivity thru the screen. I wish you all the best on your journey.
You made me so emotional when you shared how involved your family were on your journey. It's not everyday that one hears how a family walks the walk, instead of talking the talk. May Gods blessings reign down on all of them and may you go from strength to strength with your recovery 🙏🏼
Your honesty and transparency are refreshing. Your family story reminds us of the importance of being there for each other. Being willing to advocate for another is a tremendous gift. Without a strong faith, I don't know how people push forward as you continue to do. May the Lord bless you as you press on to the upward call... Praying for you🙏
Great story. We all are praying for your continuing recovery which I believe will turn out well for years to come. By sharing this personal experience you are helping numerous others in responding quickly to the signs and symptoms.
@@IvanaGirl Many of us have no family or a tiny family. That’s why we need a supportive community larger than family - and a culture that encourages each member to care about people who aren’t in one’s own family. I hope this country (the States) can develop that kind of culture.
YES i am constantly grateful for my family. Me being off in India for almost two decades made us realize we needed each other, I think. thank you guys for your kind words :)
Thank you for sharing your story, I'm trying to get my husband to see the doctor but we don't have insurance to go right now and he's having alot of the symptoms that you did, plus he's had his gallbladder removal and a heart stent put in and their all happened last January. He is 56 years old.....please pray for him and pray we can get insurance so he can go to the doctor 🙏
that's what my issue was... worried about insurance and trying to work it all out in my head... until the moment came that i HAD to do something. praying for your husband.... thank you for including us here :)
I love that you shared your story! Such an encouragement for anyone recently diagnosed with cancer. Awesome! We are praying many years of good health for you! ❤
Hope, combined with faith is everything. I know, I have breast cancer, but not allowed to have chemo or radiation due to an autoimmune disorder, Lupus. More to the story, but too much to share here. Best to you.
Thank you for your being open enough to talk about symptoms. It's not very often anyone, including doctors, explain what they are. I lost my ex-husband to cancer last year. It was heartbreaking. But, his strength to love and care was so emense that it became the gift that carried the entire family through. ❤
Not me. 55 and just had my second colonoscopy. Had one at 50. My sister died of uterine cancer at 59 two years ago. Told my doctor I wanted another colonoscopy soon, not when I turn 60 which would be the normal cadence. Clean as a whistle
@@EM-cz4rdbecause of all the young people being diagnosed with colon cancer they have lowered that recommendation to 45 and I wouldn’t be surprised if that is lowered again soon. Quite scary
Absolutely now convinced my phone is listening to me......I met an old friend today and he talked about his colon cancer... and this comes up on TH-cam straight away tonight. Saying that I'm 50 and haven't been to a doctor since approximately 1996...I feel good so can't be arsed.
You’re so lucky you had strong family support through all this. I can’t imagine being alone with few resources trying to strategize getting your heath back.
Life is indeed tough Ken, for all of us here on earth. A good attitude is No. 1. Stay hopeful and love that around you, each and every moment of each and every day. ❤
13:40 always get a second opinion, third, fourth, as many as you can until you feel satisfied. I'm going back to your video, I just wanted to say that, extremely important... beautiful message at the end.🙏 amen 🙏
My sister's dog helped diagnose her colon cancer when she was in her late 30s by nuzzling aggressively into her side. luckily, it was stage 2. I now get a colonoscopy every 5 years with the rest of our family. Traveled to Himalayas, too! Wonderful and beautiful place.
Thank you Ken for sharing your journey. I did the same last year. It's a good thing being able to share your experience. Folks do look to these testimonies for hope, strength and encouragement. I can guarantee you've provided that to at least one person. Hope you continue to do well. 💪
Hi Ken, you must be “around” my vintage (‘65) and are suffering problems you mention. Am patiently waiting for a colonoscopy. Love and light to you from Sydney, Australia… and Happy New Year 🙏🏻❤️😊🇦🇺
Ken, you have an AWESOME TEAM!!!! Very supportive family, ur doctors took quick action. Glad to hear your story. Enjoy life and INCLUDE your family on your journey
Thank you for your utterly honest congenial sharing . My dad passed away from colon cancer stage 4 almost 27 years ago when medical technology n treatment protocols weren’t so advanced yet . Ever since then , I am very wary of early signs of colon cancer as a real probability that I might have to be aware of. Meeting the correct doctor as well as getting the correct treatment is essential to fighting cancer. So your family is extremely amazing in getting u to where you are now. Keep up the good fight and glad u are doing so well. Take care from Malaysia.
Thanks for sharing brother. It’s helping many people. Keep praying to the Lord. 🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️
18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1
Thank you for sharing this life changing health event. You expressed your thoughts and communicated your message nicely. I strongly feel this life is a journey with many choices we "must" face to either continue on or bring it to an end. Your journey involves a caring family. Please realize this was NOT luck but years of other's journey coming together at the right time in theirs to help you in yours. I believe this is a love we can't understand or see, but know it's strong, real and life changing for you and them. You look and sound great for what all you've been thru. Keep up with your faith. So many are thinking and praying for you to continue on. You're definitely not alone in this journey you call a "life struggle". ❤
GO KEN! Your story is inspirational to listen to and I’m smiling with you! You are doing you and your faith will continue to make you stronger to conquer this challenge in your life. Your blessing will continue to keep you and bring joy to your life. Thanks Ken
Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you. As I’ve gotten older I start fearing this or a heart attack although I am or overweight etc. I can’t stand bloodwork or pills but hearing stories like yours has taught me I really need to get checked regularly. I can’t be stubborn. To all who read this and are healing, or loved one is, I am praying for your recovery.
You are a beautiful soul! What a great family. I hope all the best for you sir!!! You are a great speaker, too. Thank you so much for telling your story.
Thank you for making this, I feel you can help alot of people through a very difficult time, I'm saving your video ,and you're right about life, so many traumatic experiences that every man and women goes through and we all need the power of others to help us through it
Yes, Ken. There is a difference between being a pessimist and being a realist. I’m just like you. I see the world for what it is: bad and good. People call me negative but there are so many negative things happening around us all the time. Sickness, wars, violence, hatred; and then there’s music, art, laughter, forgiveness, quietude, peace. So take some of each. Feel compassion for the suffering among us. Feel the sun on your face. Hear the birds sing and feel the gentle breezes. Enjoy what you can while you can. Nurture your friends who are going through surgeries, illness and difficulty. Your video is so honest and truthful; it gives a sense of positivity and hope. Thank you! Be well!
Thanks for sharing your important and amazing story. Denial and fear are very powerful and probably common reactions to the changes your body was going through. As hard as it may be, for others reading the comments, it can be very helpful to be brave and tell a trusted friend or family member with full disclosure to get you motivated to take action (making a doctor appointment). I speak from experience with the denial and fear reaction.
Your story is absolutely amazing. Never giving up is key. Push the medical industry to listen to you. The medical professions today have very bad attitudes for anyone with difficult medical issues. I am glad your family was a factor in your cure. Definitely God was involved as well. I have gone through cancer too. I listened and read and researched my type of cancer.
Thanks for telling your story. Being stubborn and in denial is a common man thing. The biggest take away is getting to the right provider which can make all the difference.
I hope you don't mean you are dealing with difficult health issues right now, alone... ?? i hope you find that friends and even distant or estranged family will rally to your side if it is ever needed.
Thank you so much for sharing. Your story is very insightful and things do happen differently for everyone. But someone like you to share what you have been thru is so unimaginable yet so inspiring! Your insight and experiences can definitely help the next person. Thank you so much Ken and god bless you Sir! ❤
Thank you for adding your story. It's a great turnaround story from a dodgy start. I agree that researching is important as it helps us advocate for ourselves or like you, have a caring family willing to advocate for you. I wish you continued healing and health.
I understand that Google can be the wrong place for some but honestly we have a responsibility to learn everything we can about our cancer. How are we going to advocate for ourselves if we don’t know anything. Hope you stay well. X
He definitely had God’s favor when he was transferred to Mayo and they were all ready for him! While there is still breath in his lungs there’s a testimony of God’s goodness to share. My Mom graduated to Heaven from stage 4 colon cancer almost a year ago and when I look back at how God had his hand in her journey it just blows me away. Keep trusting God, Ken! He will always protect and care for you.
So sorry for the loss of your mom. yes, anyone dealing with cancer gets to face some rough battles, in both body and mind... and also all close relationships. thank you so much for your input.
Hi Ken. So glad I came across your video. Very scary situation to go thru but you did it with optimism and courage. You have a great outlook and great thoughts to share. Gongrats and thanks. Keep going strong and the best of life to you.
Thank you, Ken. Beam forward with what we know is active around & throughout us in this world ~ Love, Healing & Uniting. 3 points about Optimism/Pessimism. 1) When a person is feeling sick or being told s/he is sick, they don’t have abundant extra energy to advocate for themselves. They need loving support; 2) In researching, one must also remember that Medical Research papers are often written for cases that do not respond / heal with standard protocols, i.e., a study recommendation may not be necessary for the majority of cases. For “discernment” a trusted doctor with practical experience is also needed. For recommendations to find doctors who are highly accurate in diagnosis and treatment, ask an emergency room nurses; and, 3) Nutrition is always vital along with mind/body practices. These can help one feel better even if one’s numbers are presenting challenges. I think these are important accompaniment to other treatments AND can be key in healing. These also help with the challenges of deciding how one may apply optimism and pessimism each day. Prayers & best wishes for all possible supports to Ken and to everyone aiming for healing.
Hi my wife was just diagnosed with with stage 4 spread to liver. She is on chemotherapy hoping to get the chance of surgery. Would you please advise which doctor gave you the surgery? Thanks
@@wooh88 De Shawki was my GI (colon) surgeon (at Mayo), and Dr Sean Cleary did my liver section. Apparently Dr Cleary has moved to Toronto recently... I think it is the University of Toronto. I pray for the very best for your wife and family.
Yes sorry to hear that. It's not fun. I hope you have good professional care. Sending you lots of love and moral support. Let us know how you're getting on. 💐
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am overdue for a Dr. visit. I'm 55 and haven't a primary care physician in about 15yrs . I have self-diagnised nerve damage and I have experienced tell-tale signs that there might be something going on with my prostate. The whole computer process of chosing a Dr. discouraged me years ago and I haven't tried again. I will try Soon before I change jobs and get any kind of blood work that I can get , done and go from there.
Very well said! So many ignore their symptoms for too long, or doctors try to tell people that it’s everything under the sun but cancer. My mom was diagnosed with colon cancer at 68, luckily it was caught fairly early. Her early symptom was anemia and fatigue. She had surgery and there was no spread or lymph node involvement, so had no further treatment. She always had in the back of her mind that it could return but it never did and she lived to 87. My sister and I have been diligent about getting our colonoscopies
Hi Ken, I hope with all the Surgery, that they managed to get all the Cancer out. Going to Mayo Clinic and getting the Surgeries was a Blessing. It goes to show that being with the wrong Dr. can have catastrophic consequences. The Dr.s that said you can’t have Surgery, I think we’re quitters. They were only going to do Chemo and that probably wouldn’t have helped you if the Cancer was left inside of you. Anyway, I really hope you can get Cancer free, and enjoy your Life. I hope you Thanked all your Family members for their support.
Ken! I love your attitude! Thirsting for knowledge and being realistic! But most of all trusting in the lord! Excepting that you are human with all our frailties!!! Hold on to your anchor!
I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in 1976, when no one even knew or heard of it. I've lived with it over almost the last 50 years and the secret is to change your diet, exercise, no alcohol, no smoking and you'll be okay. In January 2024 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. I went through both chemotherapy and immune therapy beginning in March 2024 and I ended it in December 2024. I got a second opinion with UCLA and even a third opinion with another local cancer center. During both of my second and third opinion, they wanted me to start oral chemo, a long with a 28 days of radiation. I switched over to my third opinion cancer center because the one I was going to for nine months informed me that radiation would not work for my cancer. During that entire time both my CEA and CA-19 would rise and fall, then rise again and drop again. Well I started radiation and have completed eight days and received a progress report that my CEA dropped from 7.8 at the beginning to currently 5.6, the lowest it's ever been. So the first Oncologist who informed me radiation would work was either misinformed, unaware or just plain stupid. So, I guess what I'm attempting to get at is if you feel your present medical and or radiation oncologist is misinforming you, please, please do you research and get several additional opinions from other cancer centers. It can and will save your life.
Hey Ken This video just appeared random on my TH-cam feed when I quickly realized that I had known you many years ago in Dhamasala. when you ran a coffee shop. I'm Erik maybe you remember? When I got back to the states you once helped send my some Tibetan meds. Circa 2006 ish.Anyway just listened to your story. My heart is with you. I remember you always being a kind good person. Your positive attitude is inspiring. I've been living in North Carolina for years. Please reach out to me if you wish.
![บังเอิญมันได้อ่ะ - แอน อรดี [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9fwjammKY4A/mqdefault.jpg)
![TIMETHAI - ไม่อยากให้เป็นเขา (Why tho?) [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/o2qYlGVVtOw/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you Ken for sharing your story. You are a hopeful realist, not a pessimist. I love your attitude. The more we share. the more we know, the closer we get to beating this monster called cancer. you my friend are part of the solution.
Jaqueline, you need to be more of a realist. Cancer is not a "monster." Cancer results from a glitch in one's own immune system, causing faulty cells that are normally killed off, to live and grow into tumors. It is important to stay scientific about it, and really understand it, if one wants to survive it. Those who become immature and hyper-emotional about cancer, usually die from it, be cause their emotions keep them from making their best treatment decisions.
thank you for listening!
thank you muchly for the kind words... just now starting to dig into the comments and i really appreciate the encouragement
i’m sending my love and prayers 🙏🏻❤️
@@jacquelinedelouche4885 GI issues with chronic diarrhea was precursor to my friends diagnosis of Pancreas Cancer which spread to intestines. She let her symptom go too long before getting to a doctor. I lost my friend last July. Advocate for yourself always
HEY GUYS... Ken here. I'm just now trying to get to your comments, and I thank you all so much for chipping in with your thoughts, reactions and words of either advice or encouragement. This interview was recorded back in August, FYI. The number 1 reason I wanted to partner with The Patient Story was to offer some hope and maybe touch someone who needed a boost. I will do my best to eventually respond to all of you who have asked questions or shown support. blessings >> ken ❤
Did you try alternatives? Currently curing my dog and my sister with stuff you can buy on the internet for $500. Highly effective, it doesn't cure all types but seems to work for the majority of can sir types.
Thank you so much for your story of hope. God bless you!
@@mark2073 LOL
@@tonischeper7284 ❤❤
@ken.himalayas I suggest you research it, I'm not kidding. 20 days ago the vet said my dog had a week left, her whole chest cavity filled with a huge two-more on her spleen. We started her on treatment that night. A few nights we thought she wouldn't make it through the night but now she has made a huge turnaround, like a new dog. Hundreds of thousand of people are saying the same thing. Unfortunately I can't tell you what it is here, you know the rules...
My husband was 55 when he was had his colon surgery for colon cancer. This was 5 years after he donated his kidney to me. 6 months later it was found in his liver. The liver surgeon removed the cancerous part.
This was 2005. He’s 75 now and very healthy. God bless you and I’m sure your life will go the same direction. 🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻
Thank god for your husband health. Please was your husband liver functioning right during these period using standard lab blood test and did he use FIT test b4 the colonoscopy ? Thanks
Glad he survived, thank you for sharing
God is AWESOME!!!!
@@Itsmemrsmoore How is God awesome? My father died at 55 from colon cancer. He was a good man, and a loyal catholic. My sister died from lung cancer. If I were a believer, I would be angry he didn't spare my loved ones. God not existing is the only thing that makes sense. 😮
@ I’m not hear to argue about my beliefs ma’am and I’m so sorry for your loss. Everything both good and bad happens for a reason and usually we don’t know why, but God is still in control. Be blessed!!
My father was also 59 when he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, and it started with a mere stomachache in January '19 and got diagnosed May had surgery but wasn't able to make it along the way and passed October same year. I felt bad and cried when he said, "I still want to live and visit/see you in Canada with grandkids." It's terrible how this disease took the lives of many, especially our loved ones. 😭
I, too, have an early stage of cervical cancer prior to my dad's diagnosis and in full remission. But, few symptoms are showing now and will get an u/s this Thursday. Hopefully, everything is fine.🙏
Praying for your complete healing Ken!🙏❤️
🙏💪🙏💪
I Hope your U/Sound went ok.
Blessings to you🙏
Prayers❤
I presently have Stage 3 B " High Risk" nonevasive rectal cancer. I was first diagnosed with diverticulitis. As time went on, it was obvious things weren't getting better. 9 mos later, I was diagnosed with rectal cancer on Oct 11 of 2024. I just finished the second chemo treatment. I have a colostomy as well. After I finish chemo/ radiation then I will have surgery to remove what is left of the tumor. Godspeed to you, sir.
if you would like to share your story please fill out our intro survey: thepatientstory.com/share-your-story/
I’m praying for you.
bless you sir!!! there are a lot of us out there fighting this fight. wishing and praying for all the very BEST.
Hugs and love ❤️ to you! You will make it!!!
God the cancer society has been at it over 100 years and cure come on
Wishing you a long, healthy and cancer free life from now on!!!!❤❤❤
thank you for the kind words!
thank you for your kindness!! so much appreciated.
You are a lucky man when it comes to having a caring family! Wishing you the best!
It's rarely luck, it's usually hard work and dedication .. but I understand your sentiment.
a support system can make all the difference :)
@@pm2886 yes thank you for that comment... family relationships aren't magical. you have to work hard to love and respect each other when many times it would be easier to cut and run. :))
Wow! I'm just like him as far as ignoring my health because I don't want to know. You are a miracle!!
there are always at least a few dozen reasons to ignore what's going on, rationalize and deny. i'm the king of that.
it's what especially we american men do, partly bcuz now we don't want to deal w/ the b.s. and over-the-top hassles of using health insurance.!!! Add that to male tendency to not use medical pro's ,and we have so many midlife men dying now! That's reality in america where we spend over 2X what our peer nations spend and we have worse outcomes
Get well, dude, from a fellow expat type. Many people have come back from worse. Watched this in a cab in Taiwan. Just watching the subtitles because I'd just dropped my earphones in a puddle. My dad had ulcerative colitis and his dad died of colon cancer in the 1960s. I'm 40 and I live kinda hard. Got scoped a couple years ago but good reminder to maybe do it yearly if possible. Best wishes to you, and keep your head right. You got this.
My prayers for a cancer free life for you! My blessings and wishes for a graceful healing journey!
Some docs have a response, such as telling you to get your funeral scheduled, and another doctor is very positive and manages to yield a good outcome. Speaking from experience with a close family member. Kudos to Mayo Clinic for doing an asap surgery.
we love MAYO Clinic!
YES... that's why i say that each individual experience is different, and there is no single uniform path. thx for your input !
You're amazing, Ken! I love your attitude and I so appreciate your realism but hopefulness. It's so important to get multiple opinions, listen and listen from other patients, do your own discerning research. You have your family to thank for getting you to the Mayo doctors. Just goes to show to seek multiple opinions and enough information to make a very informed decision. I wish you only the best!
YES. thank you for inserting that truth
Your story is amazing!
The odds were really stacked against you. Including your heart condition. But you were guided through a series of surgeries and chemo.
You look amazing!
This will give people who may be feeling despair, so much hope.
never give up hope!
yeah, the endocarditis was a massive hurdle, which kinda got edited out of the story. it was the main reason why very few GI surgeons were keen on taking me on.... thus the mayo thing. thank you :)
@@ken.himalayascurious what chemo you were given. And what the type of cancer was that you had / gave?
I was 49, June of 23. Trip to er for fever and low right belly pain revealed 10cm tumor in my colon. Hepatic flexure area by my liver. Almost completely occluded. Scans showed no other signs of metastasis. Went to university of michigan for a right hemicolectomy. No bag. But guts were slow to start working again so they gave me a CT on day 5 after surgery. For the first time the radiologist noted a few abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes that were "prominent" meaning bigger than they should be. Went to oncology in Kalamazoo MI. Got out on chemo. Ignored the lymph nodes and called me 3b. Then after 4 cycles they tested my cea and it had gone up. So stat CT. Lymph nodes bigger than they were after surgery. Needly biopsy confirmed same cancer from colon in lymph nodes.
Cancer still only in lymph nodes (maybe some in my lungs but they are too small to rest and Dr says even if it is cancer it won't cause me trouble for years). Wasted 6 months on immunotherapy while cea went up and up. Now on Fulferi. And Mvasi. And 5fu. Ugh
Ps. Today is my 51st birthday. Not sure how your video got in my TH-cam feed. It's the first colon cancer patient video I have watched. Almost clicked off it before it got started.
The regimen I am on is holding it. But not really shrinking it. And I did the genetic testing too. They said my cancer occurred 'sporadically' and not as a result of genetics. It was a adenoma polyp that went undetected and mutated to cancer.
Ken you are truly an inspiration. Your attitude is amazing, I can feel your light and positivity thru the screen. I wish you all the best on your journey.
☀☀☀
wow thank you for that great encouragement :))
You made me so emotional when you shared how involved your family were on your journey. It's not everyday that one hears how a family walks the walk, instead of talking the talk. May Gods blessings reign down on all of them and may you go from strength to strength with your recovery 🙏🏼
thank you so much!! we all know that 'family dynamics' are hard. not sweet and pleasant all the time. it's work. ❤
Your honesty and transparency are refreshing. Your family story reminds us of the importance of being there for each other. Being willing to advocate for another is a tremendous gift. Without a strong faith, I don't know how people push forward as you continue to do. May the Lord bless you as you press on to the upward call... Praying for you🙏
yes yes yes!
thank you!!!
Great story. We all are praying for your continuing recovery which I believe will turn out well for years to come. By sharing this personal experience you are helping numerous others in responding quickly to the signs and symptoms.
The power of good family ties
The power of the Great Pumpkin 🎃. 🤓
I have no family I wish I did
@@IvanaGirl Many of us have no family or a tiny family. That’s why we need a supportive community larger than family - and a culture that encourages each member to care about people who aren’t in one’s own family. I hope this country (the States) can develop that kind of culture.
@ me too, here in the states you could die in your house and they’ll just find you months later nobody cares
YES i am constantly grateful for my family. Me being off in India for almost two decades made us realize we needed each other, I think. thank you guys for your kind words :)
Thank you for sharing your story, I'm trying to get my husband to see the doctor but we don't have insurance to go right now and he's having alot of the symptoms that you did, plus he's had his gallbladder removal and a heart stent put in and their all happened last January. He is 56 years old.....please pray for him and pray we can get insurance so he can go to the doctor 🙏
that's what my issue was... worried about insurance and trying to work it all out in my head... until the moment came that i HAD to do something. praying for your husband.... thank you for including us here :)
I love that you shared your story! Such an encouragement for anyone recently diagnosed with cancer. Awesome! We are praying many years of good health for you! ❤
love you guys!!! thx linnea. just saw this comment.
I've watched a lot of cancer testimonials, and your story is very enlightening and informative.
Thank you.
thank you so much. i'm so glad to was impactful for you :))
Thank you so much for sharing your cancer journey. Sometimes all we have is hope! 💯❣️
Wishing you the best!
Hope, combined with faith is everything. I know, I have breast cancer, but not allowed to have chemo or radiation due to an autoimmune disorder,
Lupus. More to the story, but too much to share here. Best to you.
Thank you for your being open enough to talk about symptoms. It's not very often anyone, including doctors, explain what they are.
I lost my ex-husband to cancer last year. It was heartbreaking. But, his strength to love and care was so emense that it became the gift that carried the entire family through. ❤
Most men do not take good care of themselves and avoid going to the doctor. I hope this video will be an eye opener for some. Best recovery!Long life!
we hope so too!
YES it's true
Not me. 55 and just had my second colonoscopy. Had one at 50. My sister died of uterine cancer at 59 two years ago. Told my doctor I wanted another colonoscopy soon, not when I turn 60 which would be the normal cadence. Clean as a whistle
@@EM-cz4rdbecause of all the young people being diagnosed with colon cancer they have lowered that recommendation to 45 and I wouldn’t be surprised if that is lowered again soon. Quite scary
Even a simple blood work can help as the hemoglobin and iron levels will usually go down pretty quickly.
Absolutely now convinced my phone is listening to me......I met an old friend today and he talked about his colon cancer... and this comes up on TH-cam straight away tonight.
Saying that I'm 50 and haven't been to a doctor since approximately 1996...I feel good so can't be arsed.
That was nice of you to COL ON your friend.
You’re so lucky you had strong family support through all this. I can’t imagine being alone with few resources trying to strategize getting your heath back.
very lucky man to have the support he does :)
I hope he realizes that. His family advocating for him and being proactive litterly saved his life.
Thank you for sharing your story! It is amazing! Your openness is refreshing!
Life is indeed tough Ken, for all of us here on earth.
A good attitude is No. 1. Stay hopeful and love that around you, each and every moment of each and every day.
❤
Its a miracle you survived after so much stubbornness....
indeed....... you have apparently had conversations with my mom and brother. :(
Thank you so much, Ken, for sharing your story. The hope you have found through faith is everything. Your story resonated with me.
♥♥♥
so glad to hear. thank you :)
it always makes me very GLAD to know that i connected with someone... anyone, even if it is just one. THANK YOU :)
Amazing story of surviving colon cancer. Thanks for your insight into the journey to reclaiming your health.
thank you so much -- yes, it is a continuing battle, with lots of ups and downs.
Thanks!
13:40 always get a second opinion, third, fourth, as many as you can until you feel satisfied. I'm going back to your video, I just wanted to say that, extremely important... beautiful message at the end.🙏 amen 🙏
My sister's dog helped diagnose her colon cancer when she was in her late 30s by nuzzling aggressively into her side. luckily, it was stage 2. I now get a colonoscopy every 5 years with the rest of our family. Traveled to Himalayas, too! Wonderful and beautiful place.
Thank you Ken for sharing your journey. I did the same last year. It's a good thing being able to share your experience. Folks do look to these testimonies for hope, strength and encouragement. I can guarantee you've provided that to at least one person. Hope you continue to do well. 💪
thank you so much. blessings to you
Aussie hugs to you Ken. Thank you for sharing your story with us so generously. You are a natural in front of the camera. Praying for your recovery.
thank you so much for your positive encouragement. all the best to you sir
Hi Ken, you must be “around” my vintage (‘65) and are suffering problems you mention. Am patiently waiting for a colonoscopy. Love and light to you from Sydney, Australia… and Happy New Year 🙏🏻❤️😊🇦🇺
Thank you so much Ken! Your strength is admirable! Praying for you!
❤ !!
Ken, you have an AWESOME TEAM!!!! Very supportive family, ur doctors took quick action. Glad to hear your story. Enjoy life and INCLUDE your family on your journey
Thank you for your utterly honest congenial sharing . My dad passed away from colon cancer stage 4 almost 27 years ago when medical technology n treatment protocols weren’t so advanced yet . Ever since then , I am very wary of early signs of colon cancer as a real probability that I might have to be aware of. Meeting the correct doctor as well as getting the correct treatment is essential to fighting cancer. So your family is extremely amazing in getting u to where you are now. Keep up the good fight and glad u are doing so well. Take care from Malaysia.
I appreciate your story , a very familiar story with my family. Thank you for sharing, I am sending hugs and good thoughts your way.
❤
Thanks for being so real and telling every aspect of your experience.
So glad you are walking amongst us.
Thank you for sharing your story.
bless you... thanks :)
Thanks for sharing brother. It’s helping many people. Keep praying to the Lord. 🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️
Thank you for sharing this life changing health event. You expressed your thoughts and communicated your message nicely. I strongly feel this life is a journey with many choices we "must" face to either continue on or bring it to an end. Your journey involves a caring family. Please realize this was NOT luck but years of other's journey coming together at the right time in theirs to help you in yours. I believe this is a love we can't understand or see, but know it's strong, real and life changing for you and them. You look and sound great for what all you've been thru. Keep up with your faith. So many are thinking and praying for you to continue on. You're definitely not alone in this journey you call a "life struggle". ❤
GO KEN! Your story is inspirational to listen to and I’m smiling with you! You are doing you and your faith will continue to make you stronger to conquer this challenge in your life. Your blessing will continue to keep you and bring joy to your life. Thanks Ken
your comment is so appreciated. thanks for your genuine love >>
Thank you for sharing your story. God bless you. As I’ve gotten older I start fearing this or a heart attack although I am or overweight etc. I can’t stand bloodwork or pills but hearing stories like yours has taught me I really need to get checked regularly. I can’t be stubborn. To all who read this and are healing, or loved one is, I am praying for your recovery.
amen! thx for chipping in
Sorry for what happened to you. Glad to see you keeping a positive attitude. Get well soon friend. Keep the faith
You are a beautiful soul! What a great family. I hope all the best for you sir!!! You are a great speaker, too. Thank you so much for telling your story.
I think he did a really great job of telling your story. I wish you the best.
Thank you for making this, I feel you can help alot of people through a very difficult time, I'm saving your video ,and you're right about life, so many traumatic experiences that every man and women goes through and we all need the power of others to help us through it
You were very lucky you had a good primary doctor and a wonderful supportive family
thank you, yes. i never take that for granted. ever.
I'm so glad you are better!!! I'm scared ken, I've had my first round of emergency room... I go for colonoscopy on March 26th!!!🤞@@ken.himalayas
A very thoughtful story....being human is just a small part...stumbling towards the usual questions. Hope is a privilege.
Yes, Ken. There is a difference between being a pessimist and being a realist.
I’m just like you.
I see the world for what it is: bad and good.
People call me negative but there are so many negative things happening around us all the time. Sickness, wars, violence, hatred; and then there’s music, art, laughter, forgiveness, quietude, peace.
So take some of each.
Feel compassion for the suffering among us. Feel the sun on your face. Hear the birds sing and feel the gentle breezes.
Enjoy what you can while you can.
Nurture your friends who are going through surgeries, illness and difficulty.
Your video is so honest and truthful; it gives a sense of positivity and hope.
Thank you!
Be well!
wow excellent feedback. thank you so much for that. right on :)
Thanks for sharing your important and amazing story. Denial and fear are very powerful and probably common reactions to the changes your body was going through. As hard as it may be, for others reading the comments, it can be very helpful to be brave and tell a trusted friend or family member with full disclosure to get you motivated to take action (making a doctor appointment). I speak from experience with the denial and fear reaction.
PERFECT advice. thank you for that.
I really appreciate your video. This is a great service to many many people. Thank you for posting it.
An amazing story. Well told! Thank you for your honest telling esp. regarding family. God bless you 🙏.
Your story is absolutely amazing. Never giving up is key. Push the medical industry to listen to you. The medical professions today have very bad attitudes for anyone with difficult medical issues. I am glad your family was a factor in your cure. Definitely God was involved as well. I have gone through cancer too. I listened and read and researched my type of cancer.
wow -- i appreciate your input!! thank you
Preach it, Ken! Everyone is different. You're doing so well, after a very harrowing journey. Cheers!
It’s temporary
@@JK-yf2vl Life for everyone is temporary.
i appreciate your encouragement, so much. thank you for taking time to chip in.
So so sorry!! Thanks for warning others!!
Thanks for telling your story. Being stubborn and in denial is a common man thing. The biggest take away is getting to the right provider which can make all the difference.
yep... looking back it doesn't make sense, but in the thick of it, it IS a 'man' thing to rationalize and overlook and just press on
This is good and beautiful…I would have to go thru it all by myself
I hope you don't mean you are dealing with difficult health issues right now, alone... ?? i hope you find that friends and even distant or estranged family will rally to your side if it is ever needed.
Thank you so much for sharing. Your story is very insightful and things do happen differently for everyone. But someone like you to share what you have been thru is so unimaginable yet so inspiring! Your insight and experiences can definitely help the next person. Thank you so much Ken and god bless you Sir! ❤
More power to you my guy. We are proud you're doing well and keep your head up.
Godspeed. Thanks for sharing. Have 2 friends battling stage 4 cancer.
Thank you for sharing your story Ken, wishing you many more years of health and happiness!
Thank you for adding your story. It's a great turnaround story from a dodgy start. I agree that researching is important as it helps us advocate for ourselves or like you, have a caring family willing to advocate for you. I wish you continued healing and health.
thank you for your kind contribution. :))
God bless you and your family. Thank you for sharing your story. Prayers for healing 🙏🏾🙏🏾💕💕🌹🌹
🙏🙏🙏I love your realness and energy.
yeah i'm enjoying people's honesty on this channel THX
Thanks for your story Ken. I wish you the best.
bless you and thank you so much
I understand that Google can be the wrong place for some but honestly we have a responsibility to learn everything we can about our cancer. How are we going to advocate for ourselves if we don’t know anything. Hope you stay well. X
definitely a pro of having google at our finger tips
Google has been my best friend... 99% of doctors have been nowhere near a friend of mine
He definitely had God’s favor when he was transferred to Mayo and they were all ready for him! While there is still breath in his lungs there’s a testimony of God’s goodness to share. My Mom graduated to Heaven from stage 4 colon cancer almost a year ago and when I look back at how God had his hand in her journey it just blows me away. Keep trusting God, Ken! He will always protect and care for you.
so sorry to hear of your mom's passing
So sorry for the loss of your mom. yes, anyone dealing with cancer gets to face some rough battles, in both body and mind... and also all close relationships. thank you so much for your input.
Amen
Ken you’re amazing ..you have amazing wisdom…I wish u had a TH-cam channel to follow u on your journey ❤
You are inspirational, and helping others. Hope is alive and well
Hi Ken. So glad I came across your video. Very scary situation to go thru but you did it with optimism and courage. You have a great outlook and great thoughts to share. Gongrats and thanks. Keep going strong and the best of life to you.
wow. thank you so much. :)
Wonderful uplifting story. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Ken. Beam forward with what we know is active around & throughout us in this world ~ Love, Healing & Uniting.
3 points about Optimism/Pessimism. 1) When a person is feeling sick or being told s/he is sick, they don’t have abundant extra energy to advocate for themselves. They need loving support; 2) In researching, one must also remember that Medical Research papers are often written for cases that do not respond / heal with standard protocols, i.e., a study recommendation may not be necessary for the majority of cases. For “discernment” a trusted doctor with practical experience is also needed. For recommendations to find doctors who are highly accurate in diagnosis and treatment, ask an emergency room nurses; and, 3) Nutrition is always vital along with mind/body practices. These can help one feel better even if one’s numbers are presenting challenges. I think these are important accompaniment to other treatments AND can be key in healing. These also help with the challenges of deciding how one may apply optimism and pessimism each day.
Prayers & best wishes for all possible supports to Ken and to everyone aiming for healing.
Ken im a survivor colon and liver. Stage 4 metastis. Im 2 yrs free march of this yr. I had no warning but weight loss.
hey congrats!! thank you for being here :)
Hi my wife was just diagnosed with with stage 4 spread to liver. She is on chemotherapy hoping to get the chance of surgery. Would you please advise which doctor gave you the surgery? Thanks
@@wooh88 De Shawki was my GI (colon) surgeon (at Mayo), and Dr Sean Cleary did my liver section. Apparently Dr Cleary has moved to Toronto recently... I think it is the University of Toronto. I pray for the very best for your wife and family.
God bless you 🙏
So lucky to have family. I'm going through cancer basically alone.
so sorry to hear you are alone....i hope you can reach out and find the support you want and need.
You're never alone. Jesus is always there. Talk with Him. God Bless you.
We’re all here for you
Yes sorry to hear that. It's not fun. I hope you have good professional care. Sending you lots of love and moral support. Let us know how you're getting on. 💐
My God heal you!!
What a wonderful story teller you are Ken! Greetings and very best wishes from the UK.
thank you joe ❤
May God increase you in health and guidance😊
God bless you. Your beautiful spirit shines bright.
wow what a nice comment. i'm glad to hear that. you never know how what you say or convey might be received. :))
Thanks for sharing your unique story with us 🥹 Knowledge is power! Take care…
Thank you for your " reality "❤
I wish folks would also share thier financial or medical insurance experiences that comes along with medical treatments. ❤❤❤
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am overdue for a Dr. visit. I'm 55 and haven't a primary care physician in about 15yrs . I have self-diagnised nerve damage and I have experienced tell-tale signs that there might be something going on with my prostate. The whole computer process of chosing a Dr. discouraged me years ago and I haven't tried again. I will try Soon before I change jobs and get any kind of blood work that I can get , done and go from there.
Very well said! So many ignore their symptoms for too long, or doctors try to tell people that it’s everything under the sun but cancer. My mom was diagnosed with colon cancer at 68, luckily it was caught fairly early. Her early symptom was anemia and fatigue. She had surgery and there was no spread or lymph node involvement, so had no further treatment. She always had in the back of her mind that it could return but it never did and she lived to 87. My sister and I have been diligent about getting our colonoscopies
Your Story and Storytelling is phenomenal. Very well spoken. Thank You for sharing. 🙏🏾
thank you so much. i am glad it impacted you.❤
Amazing ! God Bless🙏🙏
Your amazing i feel just by listening to you that you be here way past your 80s...god bless you
Hi Ken, I hope with all the Surgery, that they managed to get all the Cancer out. Going to Mayo Clinic and getting the Surgeries was a Blessing. It goes to show that being with the wrong Dr. can have catastrophic consequences. The Dr.s that said you can’t have Surgery, I think we’re quitters. They were only going to do Chemo and that probably wouldn’t have helped you if the Cancer was left inside of you. Anyway, I really hope you can get Cancer free, and enjoy your Life. I hope you Thanked all your Family members for their support.
God Bless You! Keep up the great attitude, and I hope you continue to get well!
Salute to your attitude and how you have managed. All the best ❤
Positivity bro you got buckets of it . Keep focused . Love live enjoy xxx 🙏🇬🇧
LOVE your attitude!!! You’re inspiring
❤
Wonderful family ❤
Ken! I love your attitude! Thirsting for knowledge and being realistic! But most of all trusting in the lord! Excepting that you are human with all our frailties!!! Hold on to your anchor!
I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in 1976, when no one even knew or heard of it. I've lived with it over almost the last 50 years and the secret is to change your diet, exercise, no alcohol, no smoking and you'll be okay. In January 2024 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. I went through both chemotherapy and immune therapy beginning in March 2024 and I ended it in December 2024. I got a second opinion with UCLA and even a third opinion with another local cancer center. During both of my second and third opinion, they wanted me to start oral chemo, a long with a 28 days of radiation. I switched over to my third opinion cancer center because the one I was going to for nine months informed me that radiation would not work for my cancer. During that entire time both my CEA and CA-19 would rise and fall, then rise again and drop again. Well I started radiation and have completed eight days and received a progress report that my CEA dropped from 7.8 at the beginning to currently 5.6, the lowest it's ever been. So the first Oncologist who informed me radiation would work was either misinformed, unaware or just plain stupid. So, I guess what I'm attempting to get at is if you feel your present medical and or radiation oncologist is misinforming you, please, please do you research and get several additional opinions from other cancer centers. It can and will save your life.
Hey Ken
This video just appeared random on my TH-cam feed when I quickly realized that I had known you many years ago in Dhamasala. when you ran a coffee shop. I'm Erik maybe you remember? When I got back to the states you once helped send my some Tibetan meds. Circa 2006 ish.Anyway just listened to your story. My heart is with you. I remember you always being a kind good person. Your positive attitude is inspiring. I've been living in North Carolina for years. Please reach out to me if you wish.