Published:
There are people all around the world, the Quad Cities and on campus who have been diagnosed with cancer. When thinking of the word cancer, the emotions evoked usually have a negative connotation. And that is with good reason, as cancer takes thousands of lives each year. However, there are many survivors of cancer or current cancer patients who do not want their cancer to define them. One of those individuals is a student here at Black Hawk College by the name of Tavereas (Tav) Moore.
The Diagnosis
Tav, was diagnosed with tonsillitis in November of 2023. Tonsillitis is not cancer, but it was a sign of something much bigger. Over a span of time, what doctors had thought was tonsillitis continued to worsen. He was having troubles breathing and would consistently have to deal with ear infections. After about six months, doctors did a biopsy and informed Tav that he had Lymphoma, a cancer in the lymphatic system, specifically targeting his tonsils.
The Treatment Process
As temporary treatment, doctors prescribed Tav with oral corticosteroids. The oral corticosteroids helped him get through his pain and complete his spring semester at BHC. The two options to hopefully permanently treat the cancer were chemo or surgery. In the summer of 2024, Tav opted for surgery, which was extremely risky and caused several side effects. The surgery process was immediate and included Tav being picked up by helicopter and put on a ventilator for two full days before waking up. Although it was painful, the surgery was successful!
The Emotional Side Effects
Tav is a student, an employee and most of all, a parent. He is a father of two, who wanted to dedicate all his time and energy to his children. He was worried for his young daughter who had seen and expressed concerns for his illness. It was difficult to keep up with assignments and finding the time to study was even more stressful. Luckily, during the whole treatment process, professors Sarah Nelson and Merriam Jolly and his boss, Jen Holdorf, were very supportive and allowed him to take breaks and use assignment extensions when needed. Past experiences helped Tav keep the strength he needed to get through this tough ordeal. Having faith was another motivator that helped fortify Tav’s endurance to fight his cancer.
Advice to Others
After getting diagnosed with cancer, try not to be in fear or constant worry that your last day is near. Listen to your doctor’s words and choose the best option for your treatment despite the side effects. Although cancer does not define us, it is still a permanent part of us whether the battle is over or ongoing. So take care of yourself and fight the battle in the best way for you.
About the Author
