Dr. Morgan Cavanaugh
As a dedicated and highly respected veterinarian and animal hospital owner, Morgan Cavanaugh has spent most of his life caring for animals and ensuring their well-being. He is equally beloved for his care and kindness toward the people around him, from his family and friends to his employees and clients. That's why, when he was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer in April 2023, he was initially reluctant to share his diagnosis. Having spent his life caring for others, he didn't know how to be the patient who needed support. However, when he finally shared his diagnosis, he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and acts of kindness from everyone around him.
The incredible community Morgan had built helped reinforce his positive mindset and mental strength as he faced uncertainty during his treatment. Two months after his diagnosis, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate. As he was recovering, his doctors informed him that the biopsy revealed cancer cells remaining in his body, meaning additional treatment would be necessary. Determined to fight, Morgan researched the best treatment options, both traditional and alternative, and embraced his treatment plan with optimism and gratitude. He was fortunate to receive care from one of the world's top prostate cancer researchers, Dr. Tanya Dorff, at City of Hope. Dr. Dorff helped Morgan enroll in a clinical trial for a drug that is expected to improve survival and cure rates for men with cancer at his stage.
Morgan also followed his doctors' advice to exercise regularly during treatment, a routine he embraced wholeheartedly as a life-long fitness enthusiast. With his favorite workout partner—his wife Juli—by his side, he exercised every single day of his treatment and beyond. Though some days were more challenging than others, and his workouts looked different than they had before, he never gave up on maintaining his fitness and mental resilience.
Morgan endured six months of injectable chemotherapy (hormone suppression), which caused lethargy, muscle loss, hot flashes, and extreme fatigue; 37 radiation treatments that left him exhausted and in pain; and six months of a daily oral experimental drug that caused a metallic taste and irritated skin. Despite this grueling regimen, when Morgan rang the bell at City of Hope to mark the end of his radiation treatments, he proudly declared that he considers his diagnosis a blessing, not a curse. He believes that the experience has made him a better person, more empathetic, compassionate, and connected to others. Morgan understands that without suffering, there is no joy, and that his diagnosis has given him a renewed appreciation for life and those around him.
Today, Morgan is happy to report that he is in remission. He will continue to be closely monitored by his doctors, but he and his family remain optimistic that his treatment has resulted in a cure. Morgan continues to live life to the fullest, celebrating every day and cherishing the victory over his cancer.