A 27-year-old man shared his experience of undergoing treatment for an extremely rare disease that left him radioactive. Ben Wagenmann, a German student residing in Switzerland, discovered a lump on his throat after a skiing trip in April 2023. Despite initial improvement, the lump persisted, leading to further tests that revealed a 6cm tumor behind a lymph node.
Diagnosed with cervical paraganglioma, a rare cancer in the carotid artery, at the age of 25, Ben underwent radionuclide therapy to target cancer cells from within his body. While the treatment prevented further spread, it did not reduce the existing tumors, shifting the focus to prolonging his life rather than seeking a cure.
Ben expressed acceptance of his situation, acknowledging the challenges faced by his parents and embracing the present moment. An active individual who enjoyed cycling and skiing, Ben’s life took a different turn with the unexpected diagnosis. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his prognosis, Ben remains resilient, maintaining an active lifestyle and participating in events to defy the impact of cancer on his daily life.
Sharing his journey as part of the “Every Step Tells a Story” campaign by the World Cancer Research Fund, Ben emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. To learn more about the campaign, visit the World Cancer Research Fund’s website.