Michael Dumas' Story
Michael Dumas defines himself as a stepfather, grandfather, friend, and successful businessman; he WILL NOT allow his cancer to define and control him.
The native Dallasite and graduate of Texas Tech University enjoyed a 40-year career in mortgage banking. In 2013, he was enjoying the typical retirement activities of a healthy 65-year-old: traveling, playing golf, exercising four times a week and public speaking. A routine physical exam revealed low blood platelets, so his doctor recommended a steroid injection; when the platelet count remained low, out of an abundance of caution, doctors decided to remove his spleen. That surgery revealed a two-inch, malignant tumor on his pancreas. [There are no tests that for pancreatic cancer, so the surgery very likely saved his life.] Michael credits the same drive, faith and determination that allowed him to succeed in business with keeping him going in the fight against cancer. “My life changed that day,” he says, “When I learned of my cancer diagnosis, there was only one option for me – move forward and fight it with all my strength.”
Michael underwent chemotherapy and other surgeries since his diagnosis over three years ago, but elevated tumor markers still returned. At that point, his doctor recommended a clinical trial at Mary Crowley Cancer Research, and they waited until the right gene-based trial was available. While on the clinical trial, Michael continues to drive himself to appointments and does not miss his weekly golf game. He says the main side effect he has experienced is being a little more tired than usual. Michael is grateful for his opportunity to be a patient at Mary Crowley. “The staff at Mary Crowley work hard; they’re very in tune with the needs of their patients.”
Aside from his involvement in multiple philanthropic pursuits, Michael’s proudest achievements are his many friends and “learning to be a better man” after his cancer diagnosis, with the help of his strong faith. Michael says, “several weeks ago on my birthday, my step daughter and son-in-law gave to two different charities, rather than giving me a frivolous gift. I would like to think I inspired them to do so through my own efforts to help others.”
Michael also maintains the fighting spirit of a Texas Tech Red Raider: “Cancer can beat me down, but it can’t beat me.” Everyone at Mary Crowley agrees – Guns Up, Michael!
