"I get dressed everyday, even if I am not going out," says Miguel. That's part of how he makes each day count, part of how he keeps his mind focused forward during his cancer treatment.
After radiation and chemotherapy did not make the impact the doctors had hoped for, it was suggested to Miguel that a clinical trial might be his best chance. "They (the doctors) explained that it was a trial and it might work and might not work'" he says. But after discussing it with his wife, Iris, he agreed without hesitation. "I am 100 percent positive about my decision," says Miguel.
When Miguel, 67, was first diagnosed, his family took the news very hard. They said it felt like he might die the next day. "So far I am coping very well with my illness," he says. Before starting on the clinical trial, he felt he was waiting for his death, but it has been more than a year now.
"I don't feel perfect,but I have my good days and bad days, more good right now." He says being part of a clinical trial has given him more freedom. He is now able to walk more, drive, and get out to eat. With the support of his "savior" -- Iris -- he is able to spend time with family, especially with his grandson Jadon. "He is my love," he says with a hoarse voice and a tremendous smile.
Miguel was the fourteenth person to participate in his particular trial. "I am very fortunate and very thankful," he says. He hopes his treatment will provide information to help future patients. "I don't know how long I have," he says cautiously. Looking over at Jadon and Iris, he continues: "but I have a willingness to be alive."
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