Fast Facts: John Plumb Sr.

Facts about pancreatic cancer survivor and cancer support talk show host John Plumb.

name >> John Plumb, Sr.

occupation >> Radio host of Surviving Cancer (KFAV_FM, Missouri) and a school bus driver

diagnosis >> Pancreatic cancer, stage 4

age at diagnosis >> 60

treatment >> Cancer was in the head of the pancreas. Whipple surgical procedure was performed and two affected lymph nodes were excised. Radiation and chemotherapy were prescribed the first year.

current status >> A later recurrence of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, found early, is in remission. Plumb has regular cancer checkups. With the removal of part of his stomach, he takes Tigan (trimethobenzamide) to handle food intake and combat nausea, especially before eating his favorite, eggs over easy. "I know I'm not suppose to eat them, but I got to have them."

how cancer has affected his life >> Plumb attributes the success he's had surviving cancer to his upbeat attitude and helping others. "People ask me, 'Why are you so happy? You've had cancer!' I tell them, 'I can either stay home and feel bad and about it and brood, or I could make others happy. Period.' "

Plumb's surgeon, Steven Strasberg, MD, applauds the positive attitude. "Mr. Plumb has relieved a lot of patient here because he has brought people together and encouraged them to feel positive. ..."But whether it actually affects cancer cells, that is something I don't know."