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For 18 years, Chris has helped Aurora Health Care patients regain strength, mobility and confidence as a physical therapist assistant. It's work that he both humbly and proudly considers a privilege. "I have met so many awesome patients and caregivers along the way," Chris said. "It's a massive privilege to help people live well." But this past October, Chris' life changed unexpectedly. A lifelong cyclist, he was involved in a minor bike accident at a four-way stop. In the days that followed, he experienced severe abdominal and low back pain that wouldn't go away. When he met with his primary care provider, Dr. John Kim at Aurora Family Medicine, he was encouraged to move forward with urgent testing, which revealed significantly elevated liver enzymes. He was immediately sent to the emergency department for additional scans. Chris was shocked to hear that scans revealed tumors on his liver, which then led to the discovery of elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Soon after, Chris received the devastating news: he had prostate cancer that had spread to his liver, lymph nodes and several bones. "Suddenly, my life was flipped upside down," he recalled. The diagnosis brought a wave of emotions, but Chris never faced it alone being supported by his wife, family, friends, coworkers and providers. He began treatment under the care of hematologist and oncologist Dr. Peter Polewski, seeing multidisciplinary care teams at Aurora Health Center – Milwaukee (Good Hope), Aurora Cancer Care – Grafton and Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center. "Everyone has been great," Chris said. "Dr. Polewski is clear and communicative, professional — but first and foremost, I know he's rooting for me." Throughout treatment, Chris found encouragement from every member of his care team, including the nurses, lab staff and nutrition specialists. While chemotherapy presented challenges, he remained committed to living life as fully as possible. That determination carried over to his work. Even while undergoing treatment, Chris continued caring for patients and showing up for the people who depend on him. We're happy to share that recent tests have brought encouraging news. "Per my medical team, my scans showed significant improvement and much less cancer in my body," Chris said. Today, Chris is back to doing the things he loves — spending time with family and friends, enjoying nature, exercising, reading and playing guitar. Music has long been a part of his life. Born into a musical family, Chris eventually began playing instruments himself. For more than 20 years, he has played guitar and bass in local rock bands. His love of rock and heavy metal has remained a constant source of joy, especially during the most difficult moments of cancer treatment. Through it all, Chris has gained a perspective he never expected. "Cancer sent me on a journey I didn't buy a ticket for, but I intend to make the most of it," he said. "It's tough, unpredictable and full of highs and lows. It takes, but it also gives. Battling cancer has taught me to savor every moment of life and not take anyone or anything for granted." Chris also hopes others can learn from his experience, encouraging all men to get prostate exams, following the recommended guidelines and for all people to prioritize exercise and eating healthy. As he continues his journey with the same strength and optimism that have inspired so many teammates, patients and loved ones, we were honored to help him create a very well-deserved, unforgettable moment: a special night at Summerfest to see Muse live. 🎸 Thank you, Chris, for your compassion, resilience and spending nearly two decades helping our communities live well — and for demonstrating what it means to be a true advocate with every step forward. 💙 Chris' journey began with a visit for pain that didn't feel right. From diagnosis through treatment, our integrated and cross-functional care teams worked together to help him navigate what came next. Learn more about Aurora Cancer Care and the support available for patients and families: https://bit.ly/42LXfYm