Veterans unite to celebrate Survival

When he was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 25, Glassmeyer felt scared.  His mother had passed away from cancer at a young age and he believed he simply didn’t have time to be sick.   

“I really didn’t know what to do so I just kept putting one foot in front of the other, keeping my college grades up and working three jobs as my world felt apart around me,” he said.  “Having a successful surgery and being declared cancer-free, only to see the cancer come back, was one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through.”  

Glassmeyer’s cancer journey taught him resilience and an overall commitment to good health.  

“Every time I face adversity, I ask myself, ‘is this worse than having cancer twice?’ and so far, nothing has come close,” he said.  “It has taught me to persevere, heal and march on.”

Glassmeyer transitioned from cancer survivor into a career dedicated to health and wellness.  After years as a personal trainer, he discovered Tai Chi and fell in love with it.  He became a master Tai Chi instructor and has been inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.  Recently, he began teaching Tai Chi to his fellow Veterans at the Houston VA.  

“I have a passion for working with my military Veteran family,” he said.  “Tai Chi is a healthy way for them to relieve stress and improves their overall health. My life statement is ‘One life, one body, make the most of both.’”

Amanda Gunzelman, a social worker and cancer survivorship program coordinator at the Houston VA, has dedicated her career to supporting Veterans navigating cancer journeys.   

“My role is to empower Veterans and make sure they have the tools to survive and thrive after cancer,” she said. “It’s truly wonderful to see them live life to the fullest.”

National Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated annually to celebrate and acknowledge cancer survivors, raise awareness and recognize the ongoing challenges they face.  Gunzelman noted she often sees Veterans who are fighting cancer themselves turn their situation into a way to give back to their communities.

“It’s amazing to me that while they are in the fight of their lives dealing with cancer, they are looking for ways to give back to others.”

Army Veteran Angelo Rodriguez also shared his story at the cancer survivor celebration, received a resounding round of applause from the audience. He made a special point to thank his VA care team for their unwavering support during his cancer journey. 

“When I was going through cancer, I was so well taken care of by the VA staff that I almost felt pampered,” he said.  “They helped me through the toughest battle I’ve ever fought and are still there for me today.  I’m starting to walk without a cane and have gotten rid of my walker.  Hopefully I can start running soon.”