“Every day, I am reminded why I was led here,” he says. “Radiation Therapy is a professional that gives hope to those in their darkest days. If, for only a short time, we can provide a smile, or a warm hug, to someone who needs it, that is truly what our calling is, and why we chose this as a career.”
At just 15 years old, life as a high school freshman revolved around baseball and friends for this radiation therapist. Then came a sudden diagnosis on February 25, 2009, that would change everything—a germ cell germinoma brain tumor. This life-altering journey not only shaped his perspective on life but also inspired him to pursue a career in radiation therapy, giving back to others in the same way he was supported during his toughest moments.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
For nearly a year, headaches plagued him, escalating in severity until one day, a CT scan revealed the reason: a tumor causing major central nervous system fluid blockage. That evening, he underwent emergency surgery to relieve the pressure, followed by a biopsy confirming the diagnosis. His treatment included four cycles of chemotherapy at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis and 30 proton radiation therapy sessions at the former MPRI/IU Health Proton Therapy Center in Bloomington, Indiana, which ceased operations in 2014
Though the road to recovery was long and arduous, one thing stood out to him during treatment: the unwavering support of his radiation therapy team. “I immediately felt joy being there and excitement to interact with my team,” he recalls. Despite the 90-minute daily drives to Bloomington, the team’s warmth and positivity turned each session into a safe haven.
Finding a Calling in Adversity
During treatment, he felt a strong calling. “I knew there was a greater purpose beyond me,” he reflects. “I wanted to give back the same love, support, and lifelong impact I received during my treatment.” Conversations with his therapists sparked a deep interest in radiation therapy. “From then on, becoming a proton radiation therapist was my goal, and working at the IU Health Proton Center was the dream.”
Though the journey wasn’t easy—navigating the challenges of school and training—he persevered. When the IU Health Proton Center closed, his dream seemed out of reach, but faith led him to the Cincinnati Proton Therapy Center, where he now fulfills his calling every day.
The Joy of Being a Radiation Therapist
As a radiation therapist, he combines technical expertise with deep empathy—a balance his mentor, Holly Sempsrott, perfectly described:
“Radiation therapy is in our title. The ‘radiation’ represents the science and physics behind what we do, but the ‘therapist’ defines us as individuals. It’s about empathy, listening, and pouring our hearts into our patients.”
For him, the most rewarding part of the job is connecting with patients on a personal level. “I enjoy interacting with patients not as cancer patients but as individuals. Sharing my own story helps build trust and hope, showing them that pain is temporary and that there is strength and meaning in their journey.”
A Survivor’s Perspective
Surviving cancer as a teenager has shaped his life philosophy.
“I’ve learned to be grateful for the simple moments, for meaningful relationships, and for the chance to make a difference,” he says. “We all face our own battles, but I take pride in showing kindness, gratitude, and selflessness to everyone I can.”
His experience also gives him a unique ability to empathize with patients, as he remembers the struggles and fears of his own treatment. Whether it’s sharing words of encouragement or simply listening, he strives to be a source of comfort and strength.
Making a Lasting Impact
While he treasures many moments in his career, the most meaningful are the deep connections he forms with patients. “I pray each day that I can show love and support to someone in need,” he shares. “Even small conversations can leave a lasting impact, not just on patients but on me as well.”
His colleagues also recognize the incredible impact he has. One peer remarked, “He relates to them, offers hope, and inspires them to persevere, envisioning a future where they too have completed their cancer treatment journey.”
Andrew’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make. From a teenager receiving proton therapy to a therapist providing it, his story embodies resilience, faith, and the transformative power of care.
The information included in this testimonial is based on one patient’s unique experience and is not intended to represent all patient outcomes or expectations.
