August 30, 2019 marks my ninth year being declared cancer-free from stage IVc, Carcinoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma, a rare head and neck cancer. Beginning March 10, 2010, for six horrific months, I withstood three surgeries, daily radiation treatments, and weekly chemotherapy. A lot has happened over the past nine years and most significantly regarding my health, I now have an update to share, my oncologist and surgeon have released me from their care and I continue to be 100% cancer-free! A lot of “parts”, muscles, glands, nerves, and lymph nodes were surgically removed from my face, neck, and shoulder. I have left facial paralysis, peripheral neuropathy, limited strength, and range of motion issues in my arm and neck, but miraculously my body is compensating and continues to heal.
In October 2018, my left eye was injured which lead to my retina becoming detached. I’ve had 5 surgeries to keep the eye healthy, most recently August 21, 2019. Seeing with one eye (monocular vision) has been extremely challenging, but I’m hopeful that good vision will return soon.
I have launched a website called CXPA Cancer Foundation. Its goal is to aggregate relevant information, encouragement and hope to cancer patients and their caregivers. Please check it out and let us know what you think: www.cxpacancer.com. I’m beginning to develop a passionate, medical advisory board to the Foundation. Thankfully, I’ve connected with dozens of amazing people who’ve been impacted by carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma and related cancers. I also highly recommend a wonderful Facebook Group called Parotid People.
My three sons are doing great. Chandler is working full-time at Lowes and completing his Associate degree in Emergency Medical Services, at Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC), towards becoming an EMT and firefighter, then a paramedic. Mitchell works full-time as a mechanic at a great dealership, he recently completed an Automotive Service Technology Program at Marchman Technical College and began working toward an Associate degree at PHSC. Tristan started seventh grade at an incredible Christian, equestrian Middle School, Hope Ranch Learning Academy.

To celebrate Digital Lightbridge’s 18th anniversary (April 2, 2019), we moved the business to eastern Pasco County, San Antonio, Florida. My team and I continue to be blessed with new and exciting organizations to serve, brand and guide towards success. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me and my boys during this strange, horrible, wonderful, and incredible journey.
Love and press on, Rich