Last summer, Len Barchanowicz, a mailman from Pennsylvania, experienced neck pain that gradually worsened and led to chest pain and trouble breathing. After visiting the emergency room, doctors discovered an orange-sized mass in his chest, which turned out to be a thymoma, a rare type of cancer of the thymus gland. Len feared the worst and thought he needed immediate surgery. His wife, Lauren, who is a nurse, urged him to seek medical attention. Despite not exhibiting typical cancer symptoms, Len underwent a series of tests that ultimately revealed the presence of the tumor.
Thymoma, a tumor that arises from the thymus gland, is a rare type of cancer that tends to be encapsulated and does not easily spread. In Len’s case, the tumor was mostly encapsulated but had spread slightly, leading to a stage 2 cancer diagnosis. He underwent surgery to remove the tumor and 14 lymph nodes, with clean margins, and did not require chemotherapy or radiation due to the low risk of recurrence. However, Len will need regular chest CT scans for up to 10 years to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Recovery from the surgery was challenging, with Len experiencing intense pain, but he was able to return to work by January 2024 and is grateful for the care he received.
The experience was a shock to the Barchanowicz family, who felt alone in facing a rare cancer diagnosis. They decided to share Len’s story to raise awareness about thymoma and offer support to others who may be going through a similar situation. Despite the challenges, Len recognizes how fortunate he is to have recovered and to have a supportive family by his side. He also appreciates the care he received from his doctors at Allegheny Health Network and acknowledges the importance of regular medical check-ups to detect any potential health issues early on. The family hopes that by sharing their story, they can help others who may be dealing with similar health concerns.
For Len Barchanowicz, the journey from experiencing neck pain to receiving a thymoma diagnosis was a whirlwind of emotions and medical tests. The support of his wife, Lauren, and the expertise of his medical team were instrumental in his successful treatment and recovery. With regular monitoring and follow-up care, Len is optimistic about his future and hopes to inspire others facing similar health challenges to stay positive and seek appropriate medical attention. By sharing his story, the Barchanowicz family aims to raise awareness about thymoma and provide a message of hope and resilience to all those navigating a cancer diagnosis.
