Paying it forward after cancer treatment

After a successful stem cell transplant and radiation therapy, John Yoder dedicates his time to helping other cancer patients and survivors.

John Yoder, 54, of Danville, has been in cancer remission for eight-plus years. And he’s dedicated much of that time paying it forward to inspire others with cancer.

Grateful for the amazing care he received at Geisinger, Mr. Yoder seeks to provide resources and support, including group therapy and educational newsletters, for cancer survivors and patients living with cancer through the nonprofit he founded, The Survivor’s Journey. He also recently launched a podcast covering topics like wellness, diet, mental health and care networks to help people cope with cancer.

“Everyone’s life changes when they go through cancer. Some people give up hope, and I don’t like to see that,” says the father of two grown children and insurance agent with Christian-Baker Company. “I think it’s important that we talk about sensitive things that everybody deals with.”

Mr. Yoder’s desire to give back began when he was a patient, reaching out to many others going through cancer treatment.

Hematology nurse practitioner Jamie Weeder, who’s known Mr. Yoder since 2014, has helped connect him with others dealing with cancer.

“We see more and more patients living with cancer, and to provide them with resources and community support is amazing,” she says. “John is just a wonderful person. He has a big heart. We see him in the clinic every three months and he’s happy to see everyone and thank them for the care they’ve provided.”

Mr. Yoder’s cancer journey

Nine years ago, Mr. Yoder developed hip pain that would not go away.

“My doctor said, ‘Let’s see what’s going on. You’re 44 and shouldn’t be having this yet,’” he says.

After an X-ray revealed a tumor, his doctor referred him to orthopaedic oncology. Further testing confirmed a type of cancer called multiple myeloma in August 2014. This rare blood cancer develops in bone marrow and can spread throughout the body. He also had tumors on his chest and head and near his spine.

Mr. Yoder’s treatment at Geisinger Medical Center included radiation therapy and a stem cell transplant — which saved his life.

He says his love of traveling inspired him. “I frequently go to England, and we rent a house in the countryside,” he says. “It was my motivation to get better.”

Innovative cancer treatments in rural Pennsylvania

Mr. Yoder says he’s so appreciative of the care team at Geisinger and the leading-edge cancer treatment he received in his own backyard.

“I was very grateful to be so close to Geisinger. Some of the most remarkable people on the planet took care of me,” he says.

Mr. Yoder had an autologous stem cell transplant. In this procedure, the stem cells restore a patient’s bone marrow and immune system after high doses of chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Doctors collected Mr. Yoder’s own healthy stem cells from his blood, then reinfused them after his radiation.

“The doctors were wonderful,” he says. “The nurses and physician assistants were lifesavers. They put their hands on your hands and walk you home.”