Faces of Hope

Greg Hansen

Kidney Cancer Survivor

“I feel so blessed,” insisted Greg Hansen. “I would gladly give all the good fortune I have had to others when it comes to this illness.” Greg was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in his left kidney in August of 2014. Surgery was performed by a Methodist Hospital physician who urged him to complete his treatment at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center. Greg participated in a groundbreaking clinical trial using his own blood and tumor cells to create a life-saving vaccine treatment. He also donated his kidney tumor to research.

“If there is anything I could do to keep this from happening to others,” claimed Greg, “I am all for it.” Working side-by-side with oncologist Ralph Hauke, MD, and a team of specialists and support staff including Kathryn Bartz, RN, and the Oncology Research Department, Greg’s cancer quickly went into remission. “My physician and my family strongly encouraged me to participate in the clinical trial,” said Greg, “and thank God they did!” Greg couldn’t be more grateful for the treatment that saved his life, as well as the team that provided extraordinary support.

An Oncology social worker helped make the distance the Norfolk resident travels to receive treatment more bearable, while oncology dietitian Jami Tran-Balk offered advice for his nutrition needs. “It has been nothing but wonderful,” said Greg. “Everyone at Methodist, from the receptionists to the people I see for my blood work and CT scans – they have been super and made the whole process fantastic.”