At 22 years old, Victor Aguilar of Moriarty, New Mexico was faced with a testicular cancer diagnosis. On February 6th, 2010 he underwent surgery to have his left testicle removed, and started planning for four rounds of chemotherapy treatment. On July 8th, 2010 he had surgery to remove another tumor and lost his left kidney in the process. Now considered disease-free, Victor still must go in for the next five years to get scans to ensure the cancer does not return.What was your initial reaction to learning you had cancer at age 22?
Shock. Age didn't even come to mind at first. I just wasn't sure what to do with myself, and I didn't know how to react to the words, "you have cancer."
Had you ever met anyone else with cancer before your diagnosis?
No. But, after I was diagnosed I discovered that I had an aunt who was a cancer survivor. I asked her a few questions about what she went through, and she gave me some advice.
What was the hardest part about treatment?
At some points I got really bad headaches and I have had some side effects from the chemotherapy. But, the worst part was all the emotions I went through, and am still dealing with. I got really depressed. It's just hard being young and facing something like cancer, especially when you don't know many people who really know what it's like to go through it. I have clean scans now, but I still feel like I'm still fighting in the hopes that it doesn't return.
What helped you stay strong?
My family and my faith were the two things that really helped me get through it. I also owe a lot of thanks to my doctors and nurses who helped me through my treatments.
Did you see a change in how you went about your daily life and your relationships with those you're close with?
I got closer to my family. My parents and my sister were there to encourage me everyday. My extended family reached out to offer encouragement too. It really helped me through everything, knowing they were there.
What advice would you give to someone who is supporting a loved one with cancer?
Just be there, and be prepared to walk in their shoes to give them all the support they need. It's important just to be surrounded by love and support.
What advice would you give fellow cancer patients?
Always remember that life is too short to give up, no matter what age you are. I've seen older people dealing with much worse cancer diagnoses than I dealt with, and you just can't give up. Instead choose to fight and keep on living the best way you can.
I fought, and I'm still fighting in honor of everyone who has suffered a cancer diagnosis. Life comes and goes and I'm lucky enough to still have mine. I've had a few friends tell me that I fought my cancer like a warrior. I honestly think you have no idea how strong you are until you have no other choice but to get up every day and fight to live.
Go To Stand Up To Cancer Org.>>>
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