“I had been working as a nurse for 30 years was I diagnosed in August 2017. I was having some pain but brushed it off as we moms usually do.  On the week of my diagnosis the pain got worse. I started running a fever of 102° on that Wednesday, and Friday I went to the ER at the hospital where I worked. After a CT of my abdomen, pelvis, and chest, the doctor came in and told me and my three daughters that I had stage 4 renal cell carcinoma. It had spread from my left kidney to my right kidney and my liver . 

I was admitted to hospital and the next day my oncologist came in to see me. She was very kind and very patient with all our questions. I asked her how many treatments I would have to get, and she said “It looks like from now on.” I was really taken back by that. 

The first line of treatment was Sutent - chemo.  It was really hard on me. I lost at least 50 lbs, I was very nauseated, weak, and my skin broke down. It was really tough, and I wondered how long I could take it. It worked for 11 months, then stopped working.  

My daughters had been researching treatments and they really liked the way the immunotherapy worked. This was when it was first available as a treatment, not on trials. When I went back to my on oncologist, she talked with my doctor about immunotherapy. My doctor was in agreement.

For me, immunotherapy has been so much easier than chemotherapy. They side effects are few. With my treatment, I have some joint pain about a week after treatment and get pretty tired. I have gained back most of the weight I lost and I can eat!

I think it’s important for patients and family members to be informed when they go in to see their doctor. I have a really wonderful support system. I have three wonderful daughters that are there for anything I need, and two nurse friends that have been by my side always. 

This has really taught us to enjoy life. Being on immunotherapy, I feel like getting out and doing things. My daughters and I take at least two trips a year, and I travel with my friends. I have always had a positive attitude, but it was hard when first diagnosed!  I want to enjoy my life with my family and friends. Immunotherapy is wonderful. It allows you to enjoy life. Every day is so precious. 

I would say live each day to the fullest .  Be patient with family and friends because they don’t know what to say or do at first.   

My two favorite quotes are :

• Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one come to you without leaving happier!

• The measure of life, after all, is not its duration but its donation!

Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of this journey!”

-Lisa Sargent