Navigating a double cancer diagnosis: Don’s journey with prostate and lung cancer

In the summer of 2023, Don began experiencing strange symptoms: fevers, fatigue and night sweats. At first, he went to urgent care, where his doctors suspected a tick-borne illness. But when the symptoms returned after treatment, Don knew something wasn’t right. 

“It felt like my body was trying to tell me something, and I couldn’t ignore it,” he said.

What followed was a whirlwind of lab tests, scans and ultimately, two cancer diagnoses.

Prostate cancer diagnosis: A routine test that made all the difference

While Don’s diagnostic journey initially began at urgent care, it was his primary care physician (PCP) who led him to the answers he needed. When his symptoms returned, Don went back to urgent care, with his PCP monitoring the situation remotely with Don via video appointments. As part of a broader panel of tests to investigate Don’s symptoms, his PCP ordered a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, a routine screening for prostate cancer. Discussions with your PCP regarding screening for prostate cancer should happen at age 50 if you have an average risk, or as early as age 40 for high-risk individuals.¹ Your PCP can help you determine your risk. With no family history and consistently low PSA levels prior to this point, Don and his PCP had agreed to test every other year. At the time of Don’s symptoms, it had been about two years since his last PSA screening.

“He ordered the PSA test without seeing me in person,” said Don. “It was just a suspicion he had about some other possible causes of my symptoms.” This time, the results were different. “My PSA came back slightly elevated,” Don recalled. “It was still on the lower end of abnormal, but it was a significant jump for me.”

A follow-up test indicated a high risk of prostate cancer, and an MRI showed a lesion in the prostate, rated five out of five for likelihood of cancer. A biopsy confirmed Don’s first diagnosis: moderately aggressive prostate cancer.

The diagnosis was a shock, but Don was determined to stay informed and proactive.  As vice president and lead counsel for marketing and communications at Labcorp, he brought a unique perspective to the experience. His professional background helped him interpret the science and complex testing. With his wife by his side at every appointment, Don leaned into the process.

“I didn’t stop pushing for answers,” he said. “Every test gave us more information. And that information saved my life.”

Don and his son Erich enjoying each other's company and making memories.

Lung cancer diagnosis: A hidden threat revealed

In the midst of determining Don’s prostate cancer diagnosis, his fevers suddenly returned yet again. It was unclear if they were related to his prostate cancer or something entirely different. While investigating Don’s recurring fevers, a CT scan revealed a small nodule in the upper lobe of his right lung. At less than one centimeter, it was considered low-risk and scheduled for follow-up in six months.

But when the time came, the nodule had grown. Doctors performed a biopsy, and the results confirmed early-stage lung cancer.

“I was stunned,” Don said. “We were already dealing with prostate cancer, and now this. But again, it was caught early—because we didn’t ignore the symptoms.”

Don’s persistent fevers, which were not clearly linked to his prostate cancer, turned out to be a critical clue. Though the exact cause remains uncertain, Don and his care team believe the fevers may have been linked to his lung cancer. Without them, the CT scan and the diagnosis might never have happened.

Don relaxing on the couch with his dog—proof that some of the best moments are spent with a loyal companion by your side.

The importance of speaking up, staying informed and seeking support in men’s health

It took over 300 lab tests in one year for Don to reach his dual cancer diagnosis. “It was exhausting, but I welcomed every one of them,” he said. “The more I knew, the better.”

While the physical toll was intense, Don also prioritized his emotional well-being. When fatigue and fevers left him bedridden for weeks, he started therapy and antidepressants to stay ahead of the mental strain. He also chose to be open with friends, family and coworkers—something that brought an outpouring of support.

“People mowed our lawn, checked in regularly and made us feel cared for,” Don said. “That community helped me get through the hardest days.”

Don in his element, embracing the energy and challenge of race day, and so thankful for his health.

A key part of Don’s support system was his long-standing relationship with his PCP, which dates back to nearly a decade. “From our first appointment, he emphasized that we should have an ongoing dialogue,” Don shared. “The plan wasn’t for him to do a quick exam, ask a few questions, check a few boxes and move on to his next patient.”

Throughout Don’s diagnostic journey, his PCP remained actively involved—setting up video appointments, checking in regularly and helping Don navigate the complex web of specialists and lab test results.

“He deferred to the specialists but also noted that sometimes they get so focused, they can’t see a bigger picture,” said Don. “He wanted to stay on top of that with me. I’m very thankful for him. He’s on our list of ‘angels’ who stepped in at the right time to help me get what I needed, when I needed it.”

Don believes that being actively engaged in your own care is essential. “I go prepared with questions, think ahead about issues we should discuss and do my best to listen carefully.”

Now, Don encourages other men to take charge of their health. “Find a primary care provider you trust,” he urges. “Don’t shrug off that cough or fatigue. Ask questions. Get screened. Being an advocate for yourself is vital.”

Don von Hagen is an employee of Labcorp. No compensation or remuneration of any kind was paid in connection with this story.