Battling Cancer with Compassion: Corey Rhodes' Inspiring Journey

Corey Rhodes, a 32-year-old East Huntingdon resident, has found solace and strength in his fight against a rare form of liver cancer by focusing on helping other patients. Despite the challenges of his own battle, Rhodes has dedicated himself to raising funds for cancer research and providing comfort to those facing similar struggles.

Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Corey Rhodes' Inspiring Story

Facing a Rare Diagnosis with Resilience

Corey Rhodes was diagnosed with fibrolamellar carcinoma, a rare form of liver cancer that typically strikes younger, otherwise healthy individuals. Unlike more common types of liver cancer, this disease is thought to occur in only about one in 5 million people in the United States. Rhodes initially experienced symptoms such as heartburn during activity and shoulder pain, which led to the discovery of a tumor in his liver. After undergoing an eight-hour surgery to remove the tumor, he was devastated to learn that the cancer had returned and spread to his bones just a few months later.

Turning Adversity into Opportunity

Despite the challenges of his own cancer battle, Rhodes has found solace and strength in focusing on helping other patients. Realizing that many others face even greater financial and emotional burdens, he decided to take action. Rhodes has dedicated himself to raising funds for cancer research and providing comfort to those in need. His efforts have included organizing a successful golf outing fundraiser that attracted 136 participants, with plans for more events in the future.

Overcoming Obstacles with Determination

Rhodes' cancer journey has not been without its setbacks. At one point, he was placed in hospice care, and his weight dropped to a concerning 137 pounds. However, he has since gained 30 pounds and his remaining tumors have stabilized after switching to a more tolerable chemotherapy regimen. Throughout his ordeal, Rhodes has been fortunate to have the support of his family, friends, and community, as well as the coverage of his medical insurance.

Giving Back to the Community

Inspired by the compassion and care he has received, Rhodes has made it his mission to give back to others facing similar challenges. He has directed a portion of the funds raised through his efforts to support cancer research at the University of Pittsburgh, while the rest will be used to assist local patients in need. Rhodes' cousin, Aleece Brown, has played a key role in helping to coordinate the golf event, and his mother, Gail, has expressed pride in his selfless dedication to helping others.

Looking Ahead with Hope and Determination

As Rhodes continues his own battle against cancer, he remains focused on making a positive impact on the lives of others. He is looking forward to raffling off donated items, including a signed hockey puck from the Mario Lemieux Foundation, to raise additional funds for his cause. Additionally, he is planning another golf outing for the following year and exploring options for a winter fundraiser, driven by the belief that his "clock is ticking a lot faster than everybody else's."Corey Rhodes' inspiring journey is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and the human spirit. By turning his own adversity into an opportunity to help others, he has not only found strength in his own battle but has also made a lasting impact on his community and beyond.