Editor’s note: This is one in a series of stories exploring the survivorship journeys of Novant Health Cancer Institute patients. You’ll find all the stories here. We celebrate our survivors and share their stories to showcase how surviving – and thriving – after a cancer diagnosis is possible.
Native Charlottean Victor Ward, 63, started to suspect something was wrong when he struggled to do his beloved yard work in the summer of 2019.
Initial bloodwork by his primary care physician that November led Victor to a hematologist and, in January 2020, to a diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Victor, a 25-years-sober substance abuse disorder counselor, grandfather and Christian, faced the diagnosis practically and spiritually.
“I was not afraid when I was diagnosed,” Victor said. “Because my doctors told me it was treatable. I never really ask how much time I got. I don’t focus on dying; I focus on living. I trust God and I trust my doctors. So, I just tried to do what y’all told me to do.”
Treatment would include seemingly endless infusions, blood draws, chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant that would bring him to the hardest, but most spiritual, days of his life. “It’s been a journey,” Victor said. “What got me through is how much I want to live.”
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“I want to continue to bear witness to how awesome God is in my life,” he added. I want to see my daughter graduate from college. I want to be able to walk her down the aisle. I want to be a part of my granddaughter’s life. I want to spend more time with my son in Texas who has become an awesome father and husband. I want to retire. And do nothing if I choose it. I still don’t know how to do that. I’ve worked for 52 years now.”
And he’s not finished. He’s considering returning to school for a master’s degree in divinity.
His diagnosis changed him. He now prioritizes self-care, never missing a weekly barber appointment or the opportunity for a bubble bath or massage. He also never misses the chance to see his granddaughter or help someone.
“I would tell other people facing a cancer diagnosis that all things are possible. It ain’t over until God says it’s over,” Victor said. “Stay strong. Seek out support. Don’t be ashamed to seek out additional counseling.”
“Trust the doctors,” he added. “Especially at Novant Health. I thank God for putting me in the right place. That’s not accidental.”
He admits things aren’t always easy. He still struggles with neuropathy in his feet. He counts on Leukemia & Lymphoma Society grants to access his medications. But he’s grateful for all he’s got, waking at 3:10 a.m.every day to devote two hours to prayer and meditation.
“I don’t take my body or my life for granted,” he said. “There is life after cancer. There really is.”
He added: “Cancer made me stronger. Without a doubt. It made my faith stronger. I’m a whole lot bolder. I have a whole lot more courage. I’m a walking miracle.”
