As of yet, there is no known cure for mesothelioma. However, there are a number of survivor stories that can give hope and inspiration to mesothelioma victims and their families. Each survivor has a unique story; what worked for one may not have worked for others, and vice versa. Either way, it can be said that hope remains.

 

Some Mesothelioma Victims Do Survive Longer

The life expectancy of mesothelioma patients depends on many factors namely the type of mesothelioma, location and size of tumor, patient's age and overall health. However, the fact that many patients have survived years after diagnosis has surprised many medical practitioners.

The Immune System

One basic factor they commonly see in survivors is the immune system. Those who have participated in therapies and clinical trials that improved their immune systems have fought with the disease for many years and have continued to win.

"Prolonged Survival Due to Spontaneous Regression and Surgical Excision of Malignant Mesothelioma" is a study published in 2007 which told of a case of a 58-year old who underwent a chest wall resection but had no symptoms after the surgery. Doctors believed that his immune system had a great part in the disappearance of the illness.

James Rhio O'Connor

Upon diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma on James Rhio O'Connor, the doctor gave him one year to live. However, he lived for nearly eight years. With the help of some professional clinicians, O'Connor devised his own treatment regimen of 100 supplements every day and nutritious food with lots of fresh veggies, fruits and fish, and alternative therapies such as massage and meditation. He wrote a book entitled "They said Months, I Chose Years: A Mesothelioma Survivor's Story" where he noted that a positive outlook makes all the difference.

Paul Kraus

One of history's longest known mesothelioma survivors is Paul Kraus, who was diagnosed in 1997 (35 years after working closely with asbestos) with peritoneal mesothelioma. A poor prognosis was before him but he chose to win the fight. Working closely with nutritionists, he changed his diet to add daily supplements and underwent ozone therapy treatments. He still has the cancer and has gone weaker since the diagnosis, however, he does not experience any pain. Doctors say he could still have several more years of life expectancy.