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Longtermsurvivor 1

The Endurer

I’ve endured what life has thrown at me.

As one of the longest-living, self-recognized survivors of childhood cancer, I want to reclaim the word “survivor.” I’m not just a survivor—I’m an Endurer.

I’ve lived through 60 years of survivorship—better known as my own personal hell. I’ve survived. I’ve stumbled. I’ve thrived. I’ve fought like hell for survivor rights, and I’ve volunteered most of my life because I believe in giving back even when nothing was given to me.

Let’s count it:

• 🗓️ 7 decades
• 📆 720 months
• ⏳ 21,900 days
• 🔥 Countless battles—and I’m still standing.

I know I’ve failed at times, but I’ve succeeded in ways the world didn’t even expect me to try. I’ve carried late effects all my life, and still—I worked, pushed, created, endured. I’ve learned not to depend on anyone but God and the faith that carried me through.

I’ve endured when others let me down. I’ve endured when the system wrote me off. I’ve endured even when no one believed I’d make it this far.

And now? I believe I’ve earned a level-up.

I may not be the oldest survivor, but I am one of the longest-standing, and I know my case better than any chart ever could. I’m not afraid to speak. I’m not afraid to act.

And I’m ready for anyone who wants to challenge what I say. Go ahead. You can question my beliefs. But you can’t rewrite my life.

By Joseph Perusic:

kirbijames

Wow, you are inspiring. I am approaching 20 years so I've been looking for someone like you. My journey is not as long as yours, but I get it. The cancer center is cutting my off….no need to keep doing surveillance screens… but those give me peace of mind. I know so many people that have not survived, I feel guilty sometimes. I'm glad you have endured Joseph!!

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