SALT LAKE CITY – When Dukhi Hong was first diagnosed with cancer years ago, she never imagined she’d reach this milestone.
“It still feels like a dream,” Hong, now 84, said in Korean as she reflected on her journey at Utah Cancer Specialists, where she recently received her 100th dose of immunotherapy.
A Grim Diagnosis Turned Into a Remarkable Journey
In June 2019, Hong’s health took a frightening turn. She collapsed from a seizure, prompting her family to rush her to the hospital. That’s when doctors discovered she had small cell lung cancer, an aggressive disease that had already spread to her brain.
Her prognosis was dire—doctors initially predicted she had six to nine months to live. However, against all expectations, Hong has continued her fight for nearly six years.
“It was devastating,” said her daughter, Mitzi Maughan, recalling the day their world changed.
A Life of Strength and Resilience
Hong’s resilience is nothing new. She came to the United States from Seoul, South Korea, in 1965, following her then-husband to a country where she didn’t speak the language. Pregnant at the time, she later became a single mother, raising four children on her own.
“She’s our hero,” Mitzi said. “Her strength and positivity have always inspired us.”
Family and Treatment Become a Celebration of Life
What began as a difficult medical journey turned into an occasion for family bonding. Every three to four weeks, Hong visits the cancer center for treatment, and her loved ones make it a joyous gathering rather than a grim appointment.
“We see it as another opportunity to make memories with her,” Mitzi said.
On March 29, Hong’s milestone was celebrated with balloons, cake, and laughter as she completed her 100th immunotherapy session.
A Medical Marvel
Dr. Stephan Kendall, an oncologist at Utah Cancer Specialists, admitted Hong’s response to treatment has been astonishing.
“I’ve never had a patient reach 100 doses of any kind of therapy,” he said.
While doctors don’t fully understand why Hong has responded so well, they believe her immune system may be playing a role. Her latest scans showed no signs of cancer in her lungs, though some cancerous cells remain in her brain at a minimal level.
“She’s doing really well,” Dr. Kendall said. However, small cell lung cancer is known for returning aggressively, so continued monitoring remains crucial.
Cherishing Every Moment
With a cheerful stride, Hong left the center that day, surrounded by her children and grandchildren, who cherish every moment they still have with her.
“We don’t take a single day for granted,” Mitzi said. “Every treatment gives us more time, and that’s the greatest gift of all.”
