Photo Credit: Houston MethodistHealth
Courage at 100: Houston Methodist patient beats cancer, inspires community during National Cancer Survivors Month
June is National Cancer Survivors Month, which celebrates the resilience of patients in their fight against the disease. Among them is Houston Methodist patient Cecil McConnell. At 100 years old, McConnell stands as living proof that hope, determination and exceptional care can help patients overcome even the toughest diagnoses.
At age 96, McConnell was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, which was discovered when he sought out an explanation for his persistent coughing following a bout with COVID. The cancer affected a portion of his right lung, spread to the chest lymph nodes and reached the pleural cavity, resulting in fluid accumulation around the lungs.
“I first thought, so few make it to my age in the first place, so if it gets me, it gets me,” McConnell said. “But I tried to focus on keeping a positive attitude and staying connected to my family and friends – maybe that’s what contributed to my longevity.”
McConnell’s physician, Dr. Fadi Abu-Shahin, oncologist at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, said that stage 4 cancer is usually considered incurable, though there are rare exceptions.
Instead of chemotherapy, McConnell received immunotherapy, which helps the body’s immune system fight cancer, followed by a short course of highly targeted radiation. This approach was chosen based on testing which suggested he was likely to respond well. Immunotherapy also typically has fewer side effects, making it a better option for older patients.
He began treatment in January 2023 and finished in February 2024, when scans showed no clear signs of cancer. More than two years later, McConnell remains in remission.
“As physicians, medicine gives us moments we never forget,” Shahin said. “While oncology is often perceived as challenging, it can also provide a chance to live these rewarding
moments. Seeing a patient with advanced lung cancer thrive in remission for more than two years – and celebrate his 100th birthday – has been among the most memorable moments in my career. His journey is a powerful reminder that science and hope may together lead to outstanding outcomes.”
McConnell’s advice to fellow patients this Cancer Survivors Day is simple: “Keep living your life and stay active,” he said. “Interaction with people is important in every phase of life – even when you’re going through cancer. Keep hope and prayer, and by the grace of God you will recover.”
Treating around 7,000 new cancer cases each year, Houston Methodist’s highly specialized team includes experts in all types of cancer, both common and rare, who support patients and their caregivers during every stage of their cancer journey — from diagnosis and treatment through recovery and survivorship. Find a location near you to start your care journey today.
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Source: Houston Methodist
