Couple Diagnosed with Cancer Simultaneously, Undergo Treatment Together
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Eti and Lior Zohar, a couple from Israel, were simultaneously diagnosed with cancer in 2021. Eti's insistence on a colonoscopy for her husband led to the discovery of his intestinal tumor, and shortly after, Eti found a breast tumor. They underwent concurrent treatments, including chemotherapy, which strengthened their relationship. Their story is shared to promote early cancer detection and encourage people to be vigilant about their health.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Eti and Lior Zohar, an Israeli couple, were diagnosed with intestinal and breast cancer respectively in the same month.
- Eti's insistence on a colonoscopy for her husband, Lior, led to the early detection of his tumor.
- The couple underwent concurrent treatments, including chemotherapy, supporting each other throughout the process.
- Their experience has prompted them to advocate for early cancer detection and vigilance.
- The simultaneous diagnoses significantly strengthened their marital bond.
A decisive decision by Eti Zohar, 45, three years ago, likely saved her husband Lior Zohar's, 49, life. Because two of their three daughters suffer from Crohn's disease, Eti insisted that she and Lior undergo colonoscopies to check if the condition originated from them. Lior was initially reluctant but was persuaded by his wife. During the procedure, doctors found a tennis-ball-sized tumor in Lior's intestine, a diagnosis that came as a shock as he had no symptoms.
While awaiting Lior's biopsy results, Eti discovered a small lump in her right breast. Initially dismissing it as a cyst, she sought medical attention after a lymph node appeared in her armpit. Subsequent mammograms and ultrasounds revealed an aggressive, fast-spreading cancerous tumor. The couple was stunned to face two simultaneous cancer diagnoses within their household.
Eti underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation for her aggressive breast cancer. Lior participated in a clinical trial for rectal cancer, involving radiation and chemotherapy, and was informed he likely would not need surgery. They supported each other through their treatments, sometimes even undergoing chemotherapy side-by-side, a period that significantly strengthened their bond. Their daughters, aged 21, 18, and 13, also received emotional support and attended therapy to cope with the situation.
Eti's cancer was not genetic, though she had a family history of breast cancer in her mother's sisters. Lior's cancer diagnosis prompted a shift in their lifestyle; he quit smoking, reduced meat and alcohol consumption, and lost ten kilograms. Eti, who had a near-drowning experience as a child, found the ordeal gave her the courage to confront old fears, including returning to the sea.
Both Eti and Lior decided to share their story to raise awareness about early detection and the importance of seeking medical advice even when symptoms are not apparent or when tests are outside standard age recommendations. They expressed gratitude to the Davidoff Center at Beilinson Hospital for their support and positive atmosphere during their challenging journey.
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