Rudy shared his experience as a brain cancer endurer, about how he learned to embrace new ways to live his life, and identifying a greater purpose that has kept him going beyond two “expiration” dates. He also helped me understand why the term cancer “survivor” is not a universally welcomed label. 

I had a lot of fun talking to Rudy. His mind goes a mile a minute and we covered so many topics in this episode. I appreciated that he very gently called out the fact that he doesn’t like the label cancer “survivor” and it made me wonder why I was so oblivious to the debate about all the different terminologies. But I quickly realized it was because my dad was not a native English speaker and so he didn’t really think of himself in those terms. I use the term “survivor” because it seems to be the most common term used by well-known cancer organizations, but from now on, I will ask each guest what they would prefer to be called, although I still haven’t figured out what to do with my website?!

The other thing Rudy mentioned that stuck with me was about the normalization of death. As he becomes one of the lucky ones to survive beyond his “expiration” dates - which obviously is a positive thing - he also has to deal with the grief of surviving those who were so important to him on his cancer journey. This again is an example of how complex the emotional experience is for people living with cancer and it’s so important for everyone to find ways to take care of their mental health through all the ups and downs.  

You can find Rudy on: 

Twitter: @fschmnn

Brain Cancer Diaries

• Youtube: https://braincancerdiaries.com
• Instagram: @braincancerdiaries
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrainCancerDiaries/

Guys with cancer podcast

• Website: https://guyswithcancer.com
• Instagram: @guyswithcancer
• Twitter: @guyswithcancer
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guyswithcancer

Please subscribe to the podcast if you would like to hear more stories from cancer survivors, caregivers, and family members. You can let me know which topics you would like to hear more about or share any feedback about the show by going to my Instagram page or email me at talkaboutcancerpodcast@gmail.com. 

Thank you for listening!