Brian Duggan grew up in the small farming community of Cashion.

He graduated from high school there and settled into a quiet life. He raised a family, went to work every day and in his spare time volunteered with Cashion Fire Department.

A few weeks into 2020, Duggan began noticing a pain in his back.

“I told my doctor about it, so he scheduled an MRI,” Duggan said. “When we got the results back, there was a tumor on one of my kidneys.

“I had cancer.”

Immediately, he said, his mind began racing from one thought to another.

“I remember being scared and lonely,” Duggan said. “Then I wondered if I could afford the fight; finally, I just wondered how long I had to live.”

That’s when his thoughts turned to the American Cancer Society.

“I had always heard about the American Cancer Society, but didn’t know exactly what they did,” he said. “I conducted some research and found out they have a 24-hour help line, so one night I decided to call.

“I broke down and cried like a baby. Talking to a friendly voice was a big help. It was like a door was being opened and the help I received was priceless. They gave me some valuable information and helped comfort me and relieve my fears. It was just what I needed.”

Surgery was scheduled and the cancerous tumor was removed, along with one kidney.

“I was fortunate to have discovered the cancer when I did and to have the surgery when I did,” Duggan said. “Because just a few days later the coronavirus hit. I was able to take off work and not only recuperate for three weeks, but to also isolate. I’m back at work now and still trying to be safe and not overdo things.”

An upcoming CAT scan will determine how successful the surgery was, but for now, life is nearly back to normal.

“The survival rate for this type of cancer is 93 percent,” Duggan said. “So, I feel much better knowing that. My family and friends helped with the healing process and I can’t thank them enough. I must thank the doctors and nurses who saved my life and who helped me through this major setback.

“And of course, I have to say a big ‘thank you’ to the American Cancer Society,” he added. “I know they must be struggling like everyone these days, but they play such an important role for cancer patients. They were there when I needed them most and I will always do what I can to support them.”