No handbook on living with or after cancer: Meet @leeb123

TERESA: What brought you to Mayo Clinic Connect?

@leeb123: While I was dealing with chronic pain, a routine scan discovered a lesion on my right kidney. This is where my relationship with Mayo Clinic Connect began. I joined Mayo Clinic Connect in March, 2023. Little did I know then that my journey connecting with others on Mayo Clinic Connect would be lifelong.

I had a partial right nephrectomy in 2024 with successful recovery. While being monitored, thankfully, as part of my regular follow-up, they, unfortunately, discovered I had stage 3 rectal cancer. I had the FOLFOX chemotherapy regimen followed by chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer. 

Part way through rectal cancer treatment lesions were found on my left kidney and adrenal gland with overactive cortisol. In March 2026, I had a partial left nephrectomy, left adrenalectomy, and a lower anterior resection, with a permanent colostomy. 

TERESA: What motivates you to take part in Mayo Clinic Connect?

@leeb123: After my initial diagnosis, I searched online for "what to expect" information. I found many trusted resources, but I also had to filter out a lot of bad and misinformed information. I was looking for reliable, accurate patient experiences. 

When I found Mayo Clinic Connect, I realized this is the resource I'd been searching for. Not only did I find forums and people talking about kidney issues, I discovered forums or support groups about my other conditions that I could take part in.

TERESA: What support groups do you participate in?

@leeb123: As you can guess from my experiences, you’ll find me in several support groups on Mayo Clinic Connect, including:

• Chronic Pain
• Colorectal Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Kidney Conditions
• Ostomy & J-Pouch

TERESA: What about Mayo Clinic Connect makes you feel comfortable to share and to be open with the community?

@leeb123: Mayo Clinic Connect was and continues to be an active part of my personal aftercare. There is nothing more valuable than sharing experiences and learning from those who have had similar experiences. What works for one, may not for all. But helping just one other person makes an incredible impact.

I also appreciate that Mayo Clinic Connect is moderated, keeping the discussions professional, respectful so they can bring the most benefit for members.

TERESA: Tell us about a meaningful moment you've experienced on Mayo Clinic Connect. 

@leeb123: I've had multiple meaningful interactions. Some interactions have involved well placed encouragement and useful information I’ve received  from members and volunteer mentors. Other exchanges involve my offering support and sharing my experiences with members that seemed to help them and be appreciated.. 

There’s no handbook on how to live with or after cancer. One of the best resources is to hear and read about others' experiences. That’s what Mayo Clinic Connect is all about.

I share what I've learned during my life journey and always strive to be humble and to be nice.

TERESA: What surprised you the most about Mayo Clinic Connect?

@leeb123: I’m not really surprised but would say I find Mayo Clinic Connect refreshing. It’s such a valuable resource that Mayo Clinic provides to support people at some of the worst times in their lives..

TERESA: Tell us about your favorite pastime or activity.

@leeb123: I'm an avid collector of mid century modern furniture and items. I collect almost anything eclectic. I enjoy running a small hobby shop full of treasures. You can bet, I’m all in for flea markets!

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