Christopher McCarron: Sailing Through Life's Challenges
By Stacy Hall
1/27/25
At 58 years old, Christopher McCarron stands as a beacon of strength and perseverance. Living in Hartford, Connecticut, with his partner Jill and their two cats, Chris is now retired from a successful career as a software engineer, most of which he spent working for Microsoft. Retired in 2023, in his free time, he enjoys sailing on his 51-foot Island Packet sailboat and tackling various home projects. However, his journey has not been without challenges. Diagnosed with retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma (RLMS) in 2008 at the age of 41, Chris's life took an unexpected turn, leading him on a path filled with resilience, determination, and ultimately, hope.
The Diagnosis: A Relentless Pursuit of Answers
Chris's diagnosis did not come easily. Despite experiencing digestive issues that significantly impacted his daily life, his concerns were initially dismissed by his general practitioner. Told to simply eat more fiber and exercise, Chris knew something was wrong and persisted in seeking answers. It took multiple visits and unwavering self-advocacy before doctors finally ordered the scans. that revealed a 12cm tumor pressing against his internal organs. He recalls May 29, 2008 vividly; diagnosis of prostatic LMS, 12cm primary, high grade, 20/10 HRF, no evidence of metastatic disease at the age of 41.
Receiving the diagnosis of rLMS was a shock. Chris was informed of the rarity of his condition and the limited treatment options available. Faced with the daunting prospect of a total pelvic exenteration—a procedure that would remove all pelvic organs—he sought out multiple opinions from leading cancer centers, including Dana-Farber, Columbia, and Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK). Ultimately, he chose Sloan Kettering, where he underwent an extensive surgery in July 2008 to remove the tumor. It resulted in the loss of his prostate, rectum, and partial bladder function.
The Battle: A Grueling Fight Against the Odds
Chris's treatment journey was far from over after surgery. Shortly after, he was readmitted for pulmonary embolisms and began 30 rounds of radiation therapy in September 2008. Despite the challenges, Chris faced each step with resolve, balancing treatment with his career and personal life.
Unfortunately, in early 2009, scans revealed that the cancer had spread to his lungs. This led to a bilateral thoracotomy at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), where 17 sections of his lungs were removed. Following surgery, Chris underwent aggressive chemotherapy, including a rigorous inpatient regimen of MAID (mesna, adriamycin, ifosfamide, and dacarbazine), which left him physically depleted, but determined to fight on.
Overcoming Setbacks: The Path to NED
The road to NED, (no evidence of disease) was long and arduous. Despite chemotherapy and surgery, Chris faced another recurrence in October 2009. He transitioned to a gentler chemotherapy regimen with gemcitabine, which he continued until mid-2011. Finally, in September 2011, his scans showed no evidence of disease (NED), marking the beginning of his thriver journey.
Living as a Thriver: A New Perspective on Life
For over a decade, Chris has remained NED. Regular surveillance scans continue to be a part of his life, with each clear result reinforcing his gratitude and cautious optimism. While the physical effects of treatment remain a daily challenge, Chris has found solace and strength in his passions, particularly sailing and road cycling, which have provided him with a sense of freedom and control.
Chris credits much of his resilience to the support of his partner Jill, his neighbors, and the LMS online community. As an administrator of the leiomyosarcoma group on ACOR, he played a vital role in providing support and information to others facing similar diagnoses, fostering a community of shared experiences and collective knowledge.
Words of Wisdom: Advice for Those Facing LMS
Chris offers invaluable advice to those newly diagnosed with LMS: "Educate yourself and take control of your treatment decisions. Think of your treatment options like a funnel—each choice you make narrows your future options, so make informed decisions early on." He emphasizes the importance of seeking specialized sarcoma care and not being afraid to advocate for oneself.
He also reminds others not to view themselves as mere statistics. "You're not a number. You're an individual with unique circumstances. Focus on the small, positive changes you can make to improve your odds."
Looking Forward: A Life of Gratitude and Purpose
Today, Chris embraces life with a renewed appreciation for every moment. He continues to sail the open seas, tackle new projects, and support others navigating their own cancer journeys. His story is a testament to the power of persistence, the importance of seeking knowledge, and the unwavering human spirit in the face of adversity.
Chris McCarron is more than a survivor; he is a thriver, living proof that with determination, support, and hope, life after LMS can be full of possibility and joy.