Chasing Life Living with Incurable Cancer
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Oct 31, 2025 Jonathan Gluck, author of "An Exercise in Uncertainty," shares his two-decade journey living with incurable multiple myeloma. He introduces the concept of the 'cancer zombie,' explaining the emotional and relational toll of chronic illness. Discussing innovative treatments like CAR-T therapy, he highlights the importance of compassion in medicine and navigating uncertainty. Gluck encourages embracing life's complexities and offers insights on risk, acceptance, and resilience as key components to living well despite challenges.
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From Slip To Cancer Diagnosis
- Jonathan Gluck described slipping on ice, enduring year-long hip pain, and finally learning an MRI showed a lesion that led to a cancer diagnosis.
- He recalls immediate denial and shock when told he had multiple myeloma at 38 with a newborn daughter at home.
Respond With Simple Compassion
- Show simple compassion when someone gets a serious diagnosis; small phrases like "that sucks" help a lot.
- Avoid offering unsolicited medical solutions or anecdotes unless asked and stay human and present.
Two Decades Of Treatment Cycles
- Gluck recounts cycling through treatments and remissions for two decades, sometimes many times over.
- He details receiving CAR-T therapy in summer 2023 and achieving a full remission with emotional follow-up scans.
