95-year-old Racine man proves positivity can help beat cancer

When swelling appeared suddenly on the right side of his jaw in September of 2024, 95-year-old Al Unger of Racine, WI knew something wasn’t right. That initial instinct led him on a journey through specialists, scans and a diagnosis he never expected.

After visiting urgent care for his jaw swelling, Al was referred to an ENT, and then to a dentist for a tooth extraction. Even after that, the swelling persisted. His primary care doctor suspected a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. However, a specialist quickly ruled that out as well. After further imaging, scans finally revealed the cause: lymphoma.

“When you hear the word ‘cancer,’ it’s a bad word,” Al said. “People get scared. But I didn’t let myself worry.” 

Al’s upbeat attitude and carefree mentality became what he relied on to carry him through his treatments.

Treatment at the Ascension All Saints Cancer Center

Despite the difficult news, Al approached his treatment plan with quiet strength. He was referred to a multidisciplinary care team at Ascension All Saints Cancer Center after he received his diagnosis. His youngest son, who also lives in Wisconsin, was by his side from the very beginning. “You would’ve thought he was a doctor, considering how many questions he asked during that first visit,” Al recalled.

His two other sons, living in Alabama and Florida, also provided encouragement and support throughout his care.

Al began six cycles of chemotherapy after his first meeting with his oncologist, Dr. Kaoutar Tlemcani. “Don’t worry, be happy. That’s my motto,” he shared with his care team during his first infusion. 

His first chemotherapy included a powerful drug often called “the red devil,” which is notorious for its strong side effects. “As I laid there getting my first chemotherapy, I thought to myself ‘don’t worry, be happy.’ If I worry, I’ll get ulcers,” Al recalled with a chuckle.

Staying resilient through the challenges

As the chemotherapy cycles progressed, Al’s treatment time was reduced to about four hours per session, a vast improvement from the seven-hour sessions at the beginning of treatment. However, due to his underlying heart issues, the chemotherapy led to multiple hospital admissions. Al’s care team at the Ascension All Saints Cancer Center addressed his challenges with both expertise and compassion, all while appreciating his sharp wit and unwavering positivity. He remained motivated not to let his diagnosis define him. “The name of the game is to keep moving,” Al noted, reflecting upon this time in his treatment.

For his care team at Ascension All Saints, Al was more than a patient. He was a daily reminder that a positive spirit goes a long way in healing.

Finding strength and hope each day

Today, Al has officially completed his chemotherapy, and his most recent PET scan brought the best news of all: no sign of disease. With cancer behind him, he pours his energy into living each day fully. Twice a week, he heads to the rehab clinic at All Saints for cardio and strength training, keeping his body strong. He enjoys the independence of his senior living apartment and begins each morning at a nearby café, where he shares coffee, conversation and a helping hand with friends and neighbors. At 95, Al has no plans to slow down. “I’ve always been someone on the go. I haven’t sat still since I retired 33 years ago,” he said. 

In fact, Al is looking ahead to one big milestone: his 100th birthday. “I’ve already had my 80th and 90th birthday parties. If I make it to 100, my son says I get his Mustang convertible,” he said, smiling. 

With a valid driver’s license until age 101, a clean bill of health and a steadfast spirit, Al is confident he’ll get there.

Visit our website to learn more about Ascension Wisconsin’s oncology program and to explore Ascension Wisconsin's Cancer Survivorship Program.