Two Time Cancer Survivor
I’m Leann Frank
Your advocate in understanding the broader perspective as you navigate the path of cancer treatment. Allow me to explain why I’m driven to assist others through their treatment journey.
My Cancer Journey
“My story begins with the sudden loss of my job, a moment that coincided with the period in my life when doctors recommend getting a colonoscopy. Faced with losing my insurance, I quickly scheduled the procedure. At that time, I was living in Louisiana, far removed from my family and many of my friends in Wisconsin. In fact, following the procedure, I was alone when the doctor approached with news that would change my life: what I had assumed was merely a hemorrhoid turned out to be stage 3 squamous cell carcinoma, Anal Cancer. With no other symptoms, the diagnosis left me in shock.
In my naivety, or perhaps due to the overwhelming nature of the news, I expected the doctor to lay out all I needed to know. The fear of what I might find on my own deterred me from researching further. I followed the doctor’s instructions, undergoing six weeks of radiation and two sessions of continuous IV chemotherapy over four days each. The treatment protocol was followed by regular scans every three months to monitor the cancer’s response.
Years passed, and I was deemed NED—No Evidence of Disease. This victory was short-lived, however, as a move back to Wisconsin to care for my aging father led me to find a new oncologist, I discovered that my cancer had metastasized to my lung, advancing to stage 4. Again, there were no symptoms, and I was unaware that anal cancer could bypass other organs and spread directly to the lungs. I underwent high doses of radiation to my lung. My battle was not only with cancer but with the harsh aftermath of treatment. Side effects can be severe, some of which may stay with me indefinitely. Had I been fully aware of these potential consequences, I might have opted for a different treatment approach.
I share my story not to dishearten, but to empower others with knowledge and the understanding that no one must face their journey alone. It’s crucial to be well-informed about your treatment options and the possible long-term effects they may entail. Your path may be difficult, but support and information are key components in navigating it and I hope I can help.”
A Little About Me
Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I spent two decades in Louisiana before returning to Wisconsin to be closer to my family. My Christian faith has been a cornerstone of my life, guiding me through challenges and reinforcing my belief that I wouldn’t be where I am today without God’s presence in my life.
