Team Mike Yu

The Yu's story…

Eight years ago, in 2014, our lives changed drastically with the news of colon cancer stage 3 being diagnosed with Mike at age 43 and no biological history of cancer. At the time, we were told the life expectancy would be 2 years. The jolt of this news shook our family and loved ones to the core. But Mike is determined to beat the odds…initiating several surgeries & various chemo protocols as options in fighting the cancer. With each session breaking down his physical body and strength but not his mind. The mindset of Mike is always strong and determined backed by faith & his immaturity within and his will to live and bring laughter to others of all ages. His humor defines Mike…always putting a chuckle or smile on someone if I could even share the stories from the oncology nurses.

With this noted, we thought we beat the odds. He passed the 2 year forecast. And year 4 came good news - we did it! The news of remission. God answered my prayers…recovery! That Mike can start healing & we could all put this behind us & celebrate the blessing of life. However, after a year, cancer reared its ugly head again & let us know quickly and aggressively that the battle was not over - regardless of how diligent and mindful Mike was with his remission lifestyle…the cancer returned now stage 4 in 2018. Stage 4 is nonreversible; it’s about buying as much time as possible. Chemo is harsh & cancer is adaptive, eventually being resilient to treatment.

This point in time is when clinical trials are an option. The good news is there’s hope…ALWAYS HOPE. But the reality is that these trials are unknown new treatments (scientific “tests”) with very harsh side effects. Mike again underwent more major surgeries, and each one would impose a risk…more chemo sessions and a plethora of side effects that no one should endure. This struggle isn’t just real…it’s beyond real for the person physically managing more breakdown, more pain and loved ones to manage a situation that directly can not be controlled.

The strength and tenacity of Mike is exponential. Even to this day, as his body deteriorates, he loves life…he loves his family & he loves kids and to make others laugh. Most people do not see the struggle, pain and hardship because Mike chooses to lift others up with positivity not the toxicity and negative impact of cancer. He has said many times, “ Cancer may be taking my body…but it will never take my spirit”.

Mike has now opted to partake in a very new and unknown trial. We have no idea what the side effects will be. His mind continues to be strong….his faith and will to live is even stronger. He is hoping that not only may this trial help in extending his life without pain but help with the cure for others.

Mike will consistently fight harder than any person in the room. He has strong armor…his CHARACTER & ATTITUDE. After all, the neighborhood kid crew needs him to throw out random snacks & be part of their playtime. Hence, his nickname “baby mike”.