My husband Keith Shanks battled Liposarcoma for 8 1/2 years before we sadly loss him to it. When he was first diagnosed with Liposarcoma in 2013, we were both overwhelmed by the news and unsure what the future held. True to his nature, Keith handled every obstacle and challenge and never lost his sense of humor. He went into remission later that year, after the surgeons removed the tumor. He remained cancer free until 2017. When we were told that the cancer had returned, we were shocked. We did not know much about this type of cancer but we were told, during the first time around, that, if it returned, it would be terminal. I remember breaking down to my sister-in-law because I didn’t want him to see me cry. We had to wait a couple of weeks to see the specialist who confirmed that it had returned. That was one of the hardest waiting periods, because neither of us could stop thinking about what we had been told. I will always be amazed at his strength when he didn’t let the worrying stop him. Thankfully, the doctor told us that, while it was back, there had been several breakthroughs since his last diagnosis. There were now treatments that could help and more was known about the cause of it. That was such a huge relief! This time around, he needed to do chemotherapy, which was scary for the both of us. As he took each step, he continued to bring laughter to his doctors and nurses. Finally, in January 2018, he was declared cancer free again! He still had to go in for checkup scans, but we were able to start returning to our normal routine.We found out on Valentine’s Day 2019, that after one year, it had returned again. That news was so hard to bear, especially that day. We decided that we wouldn’t talk about it that night, simply wanting to enjoy our day. The next morning, we would prepare to fight the cancer. The treatments during all three occurrences were different. This third time, we had to stay near the hospital for more than a day at a time. That is when we found Hope Lodge. The family connections we made there played a huge part in helping us through our journey. Everyone that met Keith can tell you how much he loved to bring laughter to everyone and did his best to ensure they were doing okay. No matter how bad he felt or what he was dealing with, he always kept his sense of humor and could make anyone laugh. He’s favorite joke when asked about chemo was, “well least I don’t have to shave my ear hair and nose hair.” He also continued throughout his entire journey looking out and helping others. He truly is my hero. Sadly after a long battle, Keith passed away May 18, 2021. I struggle daily to move forward without him, but I know he will always be with me. I wanted to honor him so I started Keith’s Gift of Hope nonprofit foundation in his honor to help other cancer patients.
Words of Wisdom:
No matter what struggle you are facing, don’t forget to love those special people in your life and make time to enjoy time with them.
Role of the Sarcoma Foundation of America:
I sadly found them after I loss Keith but I use them to share with other cancer patients through our foundation
