Brian RumaoFebruary 4, 2026
Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.
Haruki Murakami
In the summer of 2023 my Uncle Louie started feeling pain in his legs. He visited his chiropractor, who said to take Tylenol. A week later as the pain got worse, he visited his physician — more Tylenol. A week later the pain increased and he went to the ER — more Tylenol. Finally almost a month after it began, his chiropractor recommended an MRI. My uncle suggested that idea to his physician, who agreed and ordered a full body PET scan. It lit up with cancer throughout.
For the last couple years he’s been on daily chemotherapy comprising 13 pills, regular IV treatments, and pain management. As of a few weeks ago, he’s in remission. I visited him yesterday in SF to celebrate the milestone and to recount the journey he’s been on. One of the things we talked about was the power of his attitude.
Even when going through the worst kind of cancers (in the bone and blood), even when unable to physically walk, even when feeling the worst kind of pain (to the point of wanting to saw off his legs) — he kept a positive attitude. Always a smile on his face, never feeling defeated. He credits that with his recovery. I believe it too. Our minds are powerful beyond imagination, and our spirits can lead our physical bodies — for better or for worse. So why not believe in the best?