A Couple’s Brave Battle Against Cancer
A California couple, both 40 years old, are facing a daunting challenge as they battle cancer together. Zak Salazar has been diagnosed with a terminal aggressive brain tumor, while his wife, Cori, is suffering from cancer for the second time, this time with a slow-growing form of pancreatic cancer.
The Journey So Far
Zak’s illness was discovered when an ophthalmologist noticed that his optic nerves were swollen in both eyes. An emergency MRI revealed a large mass in the right frontal lobe of his brain. The tumor type, glioblastoma multiforme, has a life expectancy of 12 to 18 months and is not curable. Cori, on the other hand, had previously battled thyroid cancer around three years ago. She recently underwent a routine check for kidney stones, which led to the discovery of her new cancer diagnosis.
The Family’s Concerns
The couple has three young children: Juniper, 6, Delaney, 4, and Luna, 3. The thought of not being able to care for their children is a constant fear for Zak and Cori. "The thought that I couldn’t be there for her, or that we both couldn’t be there for her, was really scary," Cori said. Zak added, "What happens to the girls if we both leave?" Despite the challenges they face, the couple’s priority is to ensure their daughters feel loved, cared for, and safe.
Appreciation for Life
The years of hardship have given Zak and Cori a strong appreciation for life. "This is exactly what we have, right here, right now," Cori said. They are determined to make the most of the time they have with their children. Cori expressed her desire for her girls to feel completely loved and cared for, even in the face of uncertainty. "I want my girls to feel completely loved, cared for and safe, even when, as you know, things go wrong," she said.
The Road Ahead
Cori’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis has led to the removal of her spleen and part of her pancreas. She will continue to undergo ongoing monitoring to ensure the cancer does not return. Zak’s brain tumor, although terminal, has given the couple a newfound sense of purpose. They are cherishing every moment with their children and making the most of the time they have together.
