Perseverance has been a theme in Ronald Strickland’s life. His cancer journey has been an eventful one, filled with the highest of highs and extreme lows, and plenty of twists and turns.
Ronald was training for the Chicago marathon when he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
Following a successful stem cell transplant, Ronald was declared cancer-free from leukemia. Two days later, he found out he was diagnosed with lymphoma.
“He has been very brave throughout this process,” said Sylvia Jaramillo, M.D., of Texas Oncology–Austin North. “He’s a runner, a talented poet, and a dedicated family man – he’s an inspiration to everyone he meets.”
Ronald said that no matter what anyone goes through, a positive outlook can make a world of difference.
His advice for others? “Put forth the effort to live. Every day, just live. They caught my lymphoma early, and I’m going to keep improving,” said Ronald. “I’m already feeling better. You know, it’s easy to feel sorry for yourself but at the end of the day when you get pushed down you get back up.”
What’s next for Ronald? “Chicago Marathon 2020.”
View Ronald’s story from his perspective below.