A Purpose in Life

By: Alberto Moya
Topics: Field Notes

(CBS)

When I first read about 24 year old PJ Lukac in Chicago's newspapers I was immediately moved by his story. Here was a young, bright, medical student with a promising future facing the most terrifying news from his own doctor -a malignant tumor lodged inside his brain. But what struck me the most is what he had done about it -- he decided to face his disease and made it his mission in life to fight it.

The tone of our first conversation was surprising -- I didn't sense any urgency in his voice, especially for someone who was facing the prospect of a disease with a survival rate of 15 months. Instead, I heard a calm, level headed scientist who wanted to raise awareness about his disease. There was no desperation in his voice and I wasn't sure what to make of it. It wasn't until I spoke with his family and his co-workers at the genetics lab at Northwestern University that I came to understand that while PJ came through as reserved and shy, he was determined and passionate about making the most of the time he has left.

Learn more about Bredel's research

Our first face-to-face meeting came the day PJ was scheduled for his 6th MRI -- a procedure he and his family has to endure every two months to make sure the cancer hasn't returned. While the family was glad to participate in our story, they were visibly nervous. Who wouldn't be?

A few hours later PJ called me with good news.

"It's clean," he said.

When Dr. Sanjay Gupta came along for the rest of the interviews, I had learned a lot more about brain cancer -- especially the research taking place at Dr. Markus Bredel's lab. Brain tumors are among the most complex of all cancers, but they've managed to find key genetic components that may one day allow doctors to target specific treatments tailored to each patient. They also provide an opportunity for patients to learn about the possible progression of the cancer.

While most patients chose to find out as much information as possible about their own tumors, PJ has chosen not to -- a decision Dr. Gupta asked him about during our interview.

"I'd rather not know and I just want to hope for the best," PJ told him.

After getting to know PJ, I understand that decision. He has better things to do with his time.

"It's good for people to know that there are lots of people such as in this lab who wake up every morning living and breathing cancer research so it's hope for the future."

Be sure to see the story on the CBS Evening News, tonight.

Alberto Moya is a producer for the CBS News Northeast Bureau

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by prayeranswers October 15, 2009 4:18 PM EDT: This comes as a shock to families. I am so glad that my dad and his wife got to see his story on the Bonnie Hunt show. I hope for the best for my dad also, though he is not as young . Its been a long time waiting for a dx for my dad, we got it , the same as Kennedy. I wish my dad was younger and had more fight in him. I think see this story gave our family hope and I hope my dad some fight back in him . Good luck to you
God is good All the Time; Reply to this comment


by loracc September 2, 2009 12:10 PM EDT: When I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor, my neurosurgeon gave me some excellent advice. He said not to look at survival statistics. There would be a median reported, but there is also a long tail for survival. I hope PJ Lukac -- and I -- are on that tail. It is important to recognize that much of the information on survival is based on old studies that were done before newer treatments were introduced. Each case is different. There are many types of brain tumors. Each individual is different, and some are in much better condition than others.; Reply to this comment


by Omni-Present101 September 1, 2009 7:18 PM EDT: Forgive the Earlier Typo

Moving, Inspiring & Sobering.

I Can Only Pray and Hope, His Will and Fate will be one of Longivity...

Beyond what he could have ever Imagined.

He's Defying The Odds, While Facing The Odds, All at the Same Time.

You can't help but Admire Him...

You Can't Help It.

Omaar

PS: My Wife has Breast Cancer and Elected to have Both Removed. The Dr. ask me, 'What do you Think of your Wife Electing to have her Breast Removed' and I Replied...

"I Don't Care about them being Removed, I Want My Wife To Live"

"I Want Her to Live"

The Dr. Said, "That's just the Answer, I was Looking for"

That was 3 Years ago, We're Still Together, Married for 16 Years and Still Moving Forward.

I Wish Him the Very Best.; Reply to this comment