Steve Cooper is a Radical Remission survivor of stage 4 prostate cancer. Diagnosed at the age of 42, he combined conventional and complementary approaches – including endurance training – to overcome incredible odds. He even completed an Ironman race during radiation and also during chemo treatments! Today he has no evidence of cancer.
Here is his story in his own words:
I was diagnosed on December 21, 2012 with stage 4 prostate cancer (PSA of 50, Gleason 4/4 at all 12 biopsy sites, and lymph node positive) and given 6-12 months to live.
My case was ruled inoperable by the Phoenix V.A., prompting me to seek out other options in the private sector. I had a radical prostatectomy on January 23, 2013, and soon after made a decision to fight my cancer with a “Never Quit!!” attitude – and have been going strong ever since. While on Lupron and undergoing radiation treatment, I was the first person in the world to complete an Ironman during radiation by finishing the 2013 Arizona Ironman on November 16, 2013. It consisted of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike and a 26.2-mile run, for a total of 140.6 miles.
One year later, I underwent 18 weeks of chemotherapy at the advice of Dr. Vogelzang, one of the world’s leading oncologist. On December 6, 2014, I made history once again by becoming the first person to complete a full 140.6-mile Iron distance triathlon during chemotherapy and while still on Lupron. During chemotherapy infusions, I would often pedal a stationary bike, and I ran 26.2 miles on the days of the first two chemo sessions, then completed a 70.3 mile triathlon on the day of my third chemo session, and did 16-mile triathlons on my 4th and 6th rounds. I skipped training on my 5th round, since I had completed a full 140.6 mile Iron distance triathlon two days prior
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I set out to demonstrate that you can get stronger during chemotherapy, and my Ironman during chemo was indeed 15 minutes faster than the previous year. Also, my trainer, Kyle at Triplex Training, conducted fitness assessments of me throughout chemo, and all of my scores improved during chemotherapy. My PSA remains undetectable 2½ years after my diagnosis, with no further signs of mets.
[Regarding what might cause cancer:] In general, diet, lack of exercise, heredity, stress, supplements, and environment. In my particular case, I was exposed to chemicals over 18 years in the Army that cause prostate cancer.
My “Never Quit!!” attitude can be traced back to my U.S. Army career, having completed an 18-year military career. Today, I am the CEO of ‘Today’s Campus’ media company, which publishes the largest feature magazine in higher education. I’m also a board member for ‘Zero: The End of Prostate Cancer.’
You can connect with me at www.RadioactiveIronman.com or at www.Facebook.com/RadioactiveIronman
Never Quit!!
EDITOR’S NOTE: As of April 2022 Steve continues to be well and thriving post-diagnosis.
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