"It's very important to know that you are not alone."
Mike Boyle
Mike Boyle was diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at 19.
“I was diagnosed right after high school. I was fortunate my good friends remained local, and in fact, I’m still friends with them today which is amazing 23 years after the fact. Anyway, I know it was very tough for them - 19 years old seeing a friend going through chemo, losing hair, losing a significant amount of weight, constantly being sick. It was uncomfortable for me. I can only imagine from their perspective.
"I do believe it changed all of us. Anyone I came in contact with at that point, I think it just showed a different perspective of what it means to have cancer, know someone who has and is going through it. But then to see the positive aspect of it as well. Yes, I absolutely went through hell. I went through hell, but I kept going, and I conquered, and I survived.
"And I think if I were speaking right now to someone battling or a supporter, I would really emphasize, please reach out to your doctors or your support team if you don’t feel that you’re receiving the support that you need because it’s available whether it’s financial or just support and seek care. Your friends, your family – whoever it may be. There are support groups out there, and it’s very important to know that you are not alone.”
Mike Boyle is a 23-year (and counting) survivor of a rare form of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Mike has devoted the last 23 years to support groups; answering questions and educating other survivors and supporters. He credits the support from his devoted family and friends for his successes, and he is honored that others look to him for inspiration.
Mike says that every day he is aware of his journey, and his "ABC’s" are Accept, Believe, Conquer. Mike is a health nut and enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, hiking, and living life. Mike’s advice to others is, “Believe that you can conquer [cancer].”
For more stories on cancer survival, visit WNPR's Survivor Stories.