Surviving Primary Plasma Cell Leukemia | Jeffrey Kendall Sapp | TEDxWarrenton

NOTE FROM TED: While some viewers may find this talk helpful as a complementary approach, please do not look to this talk for medical advice. This talk only represents the speaker's personal spiritual views and understanding of health. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf
Diagnosed with cancer in 2019, Jeffrey shares his journey of beating the odds in surviving primary Plasma Cell Leukemia. His through line is, "Cancer is not a death sentence, even if your doctor says it is."
His goals are to communicate some of the experiences and hard-earned lessons learned in battling Plasma Cell Leukemia that apply to cancer warriors and anyone whose life has been impacted by that disease.
His talk is informational, educational, and inspirational. It includes his experience with intensive treatment in four hospitals, being told three times his death was imminent, having 24-hour dialysis and more than 30 platelet and over 60 blood transfusions, and his battles with Multi-System Organ Failure, Cardiogenic shock, and Cardiac Arrhythmia. A retired Navy Captain with 30-years of distinguished service, Jeffrey Kendall Sapp serves as a Leadership Consultant, Senior Advisor for Impetas Defense Solutions, and Motivational Speaker.
He is currently leveraging his talent as a Motivational Speaker to increase awareness of Plasma Cell Leukemia and contribute to the cancer knowledge base.
He is extraordinarily gifted, passionate, and versatile and has inspired and empowered thousands with insights and models for self-improvement and higher achievement. The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies credits him as "One of the Nation's finest charismatic and dynamic hands-on speakers." This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@bettarease]

I've never seen someone more in touch with their faith and I feel blessed to have seen this, thank you Jeffrey.

[@albinachatton4390]

Cancer can be an isolating experience, but Jeffrey's story shows the power of prayer and the importance of community in healing.

[@TheRaidBrigade]

Jeffrey's optimism in the face of adversity is inspiring. It's a reminder that a positive outlook can make a significant difference in healing.

[@IWonaMillion]

Jeffrey's journey reminds us that cancer is non-linear. The ups and downs can be challenging, but his resilience shines through in such an amazing way

[@desireejohnson692]

I just met this gentleman and he truly moved me. I have been through a rare cancer myself. His outlook is so positive. He changed my outlook within minutes. Thank you Jeffery.

[@howiehumur]

Jeffry is another cancer warrior who has too much to live for to surrender to cancer. God Bless you.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks!

[@magnuskarlsonn]

I have a lot of respect for Jeffrey, for not letting cancer define him as a person. The sheer determination he has to live life on his own terms is incredible.

[@natashafederov]

I was moved by Jeffrey's experience with his caregivers and cheerleaders. Having a strong support system can make all the difference during tough times.

[@TheAffinityAdvocate]

I can't imagine just how emotional that roller coaster must have been Jeffrey... your story reminds us to listen to our bodies and advocate for our health ❤

[@leeziegel7447]

Such a good man,you just want to give him a big hug

[@marcusatticuslordandrule]

Jeffrey's story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. His courage in sharing his journey will undoubtedly touch many lives.

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

Knowledge is power, and Jeffrey's call to enhance the cancer knowledge base is crucial for better understanding and supporting those affected by cancer.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thx. While alive and able, I’m investing a significant portion of my remaining time alive, serving as a Cancer Awareness Advocate who flattens the learning curve for other cancer patients by sharing insights, experiences, and lessons learned.

[@florenciaconde3817]

The combination of prayer, modern medicine, and a positive attitude is awe-inspiring. Jeffrey's story shows the importance of holistic approaches in battling cancer.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thx. A positive mental attitude is essential. A positive mental attitude is a philosophy that asserts having an optimistic disposition in every situation in one’s life attracts positive changes and increases achievement. It helped me engage in a state of mind for embracing the brighter side of life, regardless of my circumstances.

[@IllustriousDoom]

Jeffrey's journey is a powerful reminder that statistics don't always dictate our fate... His determination to beat the odds is really impressive.

[@charlie-s-anger]

I think this talk really shows the importance of having a strong support network.. The impact of caregivers and cheerleaders cannot be underestimated!

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks. You are absolutely correct! a good caregiver represents and is a champion and advocate for the patient with health care professionals. They are also empowered to monitor the patient’s medical condition, make decisions on their behalf, and assist with various tasks, including getting the patient in and out of bed or chair, dressed, motivating them to exercise (walk the ward), organizing medications-which could take up to 45 minutes- and coordinating medical appointments. My wife is my caregiver. Except for when my cheerleader gave her a break, she was by my bedside during the more than 90 days I spent in three different ICUs. She slept in the room’s Lazy Boy chair, washed up in the room's sink or restrooms, and kept me in conversation during my waking hours. Moreover, she also remained in my room when staff whisked me away for testing, dialysis, or other medical procedures-sometimes for hours-and would be there smiling when I returned; a real morale booster. She also positively affected my health, healing, and happiness by being a decision-maker for medical issues and authorizations. For example, while I was heavily sedated, someone would occasionally slip me a clipboard with paperwork and then ask me to authorize a medical action or procedure. Because of the chemotherapy and painkillers, my brain was fogged over, and I had no idea what I was reading. Had my caregiver not been there to ask questions and scrutinize and understand the content before giving authorization, I could have literally signed my life away.

[@jason-childers]

Cancer is not a death sentence. Jeffrey is one of the lucky ones and with his zest for living he's an inspiration to all.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks. I plan on living a bit longer that expected.

[@ronnieoliver5034]

I worked with Jeffrey for a short while in Saudi Arabia, and seeing this clip made my day. We all wondered what happened to him. God is so good. Jeffrey glad to see that you are sharing your story. Be blessed always.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Hi Ronnie, I hope all is well. Sorry for the sudden departure. I'm surprised no one told the team I was medavacked. If you are still in contact with them, please share the hyperlink so they, too, will know that happened. The more views and thumbs-ups, the more we increase cancer awarness. Thx/Jeffrey

[@samarsamar860]

​@@jeffreysapp5687 how are u sir, u are an inspiration ,I have multiple myeloma and secondary plasma cell leukemia

[@semola17]

I lost my dad about three weeks ago to this exact type of cancer. He was 63 yo and very in love with life. This particular type of cancer, primary plasma cell leukemia, is highly aggressive and also very rare. The fact that it’s rare is what broke my heart at the very beginning: rare means few trials, few research funds for this, and therefore less knowledge about the appropriate treatment plan. I am still traumatized by the way this disease killed my dad in just one month. I am happy that there is someone out there, working to spread knowledge about PCL. I hope in the future things will change for PCL patients and their families.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thank you for sharing. Please accept my condolences for the loss of your father You are absolutely correct, primary plasma cell leukemia is a rare, aggressive, and very deadly cancer with life expectancy measured in months. I am one of the very fortunate few who survived, but it wasn't easy; it's been mentally and physically challenging, and despite being told several times that death was imminent, I kept focused on living. I am in my 5th year of survival and do not intend to surrender to cancer. Because I survived beyond expectations, a nurse labeled me as one of God's medical miracles. Can I get an Amen!? The only bright spot is that now is an exciting time in terms of cancer treatment. Options that didn’t exist a few years ago, like CAR T-Cell Therapy, offer oncologists precision medicine advancements that benefit patients and make a difference in their lives. That’s what’s keeping me alive.

[@randipowers]

Thank you, Jeffrey, for sharing your insights and lessons. Your story will undoubtedly raise awareness about cancer and provide hope to others.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thank you. I do hope to inspire others.

[@trevorcrane]

Love you man. Well done. So happy for you.

[@emmatshields]

Jeffrey's story is incredibly inspiring, definitely sharing this one 💜

[@leeziegel7447]

What a brave man

[@leeziegel7447]

Such a good guy

[@user-re7yp5wf5x]

Wow! What an inspiration to keep on keeping on!❤❤

[@robertschneller8614]

Well done Captain Sapp, on all counts.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks, Bob.

[@larrycarpenter6381]

Jeff is my classmate from USNA. Anyone who views this video will understand why his nickname among us was Scrapper. He remains an inspiration to us all.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks, Larry, I hope app is well. Hope to see you in person somewhere sown stream. Best, Scrapper

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thx, Larry

[@salberntsein]

Chemo brain is something we should all be more aware of... I think Jeffrey sharing his journey like this should serve as a wake-up call for people who've never experienced it to better understand and support cancer patients.

[@IdeaHammock]

Goodness Jeffrey being told three times you were going to die and still strutting your stuff is an achievement, Well done.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks. I will never surrender!

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thx. My wife took the brunt of the impact of my pending death declarations. A doctor once told her, "“We’ve done the test, and his heart function is extremely poor.” Then said, “We don’t expect him to survive.” And after a brief pause, declared, “He has a week to live.” I can't imagine what she felt being told something like that three times. That said, as long as I am alive and able, I will continue strutting my stuff. I'm working on a book about my journey and then will return to public speaking.

[@bigdollarsigns]

Chemo brain is real, and it's essential for everyone to understand the cognitive challenges cancer patients face during treatment. Thank you for shedding light on this, Jeffrey.

[@impariamolislam72]

I met Jeff back in 2018-2019 in KSA while we were working for the same company. He suddenly had to leave for medical reasons but not too many details were given (rightfully so, as he is entitled to his privacy). Jeff, I was very moved by your story and the struggles you went through. I’m so glad to see you are doing better. Keep up the positivity and will to fight. God is indeed great and answers the prayers of the one in need.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Impariamo, Thanks. Like I told Ronnie, Im sorry for the sudden departure and surprised no one told the team I was medavacked. If you are still in contact with them, please share the hyperlink so they, too, will know that happened. The more views and thumbs-ups, the more we increase cancer awareness. God is keeping me around fo some reason, I think part of it is to help increase awarness. All the best, Jeffrey

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thanks. I am doing much better.

[@reigngage]

No surprise here. I've witnessed Jeffrey 'closing with and destroying the enemy through firepower and maneuver' since spring of1975 when he, as an laughably undersized D-lineman (sub 200lbs) who languished on the bench of a 4-7 Navy team, rocketed to All-American status in one season. Jeffrey's encouraging words re a healthy body may violate TED's medical guidelines but, they address health and spirit, not medicine and spreadsheets. Thanks, Jeffrey!

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Ah, Yes. Football actually prepared me for dealing with cancer. (Get knocked now, but get back up and get into the game. Never surrender.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

The tale of David versus Goliath is meaningful to fellow cancer patients and me, as it symbolizes conquering formidable opponents. Imagine my fellow cancer patients and I are the small David battling cancer, the more powerful and overwhelming Goliath. But that doesn't mean he will defeat us. A football metaphor from real life illustrates my point. FOOTBALL METAPHOR At 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing only 197 lbs., and a walk-on for the U.S. Naval Academy's varsity football team, many considered me to be too small to play as a nose guard in the defensive line against Michigan, Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, and other collegiate powerhouses. My opponents had a significant size advantage over me, and they frequently teamed up with two or three players to double or triple-team me in an attempt to prevent me from stopping the ball carrier. These opposing football players were Goliaths trying to destroy me. Fortunately, the defensive line coaches trained us to stay focused on the game plan, regardless of how huge the Goliath. They also trained us to run around obstacles, roll out of blocks, and keep attacking the ball carrier until the referee blew the whistle. Never, ever, were we to assume the play was over based on what we saw. A fumble. A tackle. Or even the ball carrier running out-of-bounds. None of that mattered. We only listened to the referee's whistle stopping the play. Equally important was playing our best, regardless of how huge the Goliath! And if one of our teammates was making a tackle, they coached us to assist by piling on until we heard that whistle. The keys were never to assume Goliath would win and always give it your all. That meant running towards the ball carrier and piling on the tackle until a referee blew a whistle. And if you got blocked or knocked down, you didn't stay there. Instead, you got up and still tried to tackle the ball carrier. CANCER & THE FOOTBALL METAPHOR My football metaphor is ideal for fighting cancer; my coach and teammates are the health providers; cancer is the more powerful opponent. And even though I get blocked or knocked down by cancer, I don't stay there. Patients who "roll out of blocks" and keep their heads in the game have a higher quality of life and live longer. Giving in to cancer by not fighting against it is similar to being blocked or knocked down but never getting back up and giving in, allowing cancer to win. Cancer is knocking cancer patients down, but that does not mean we must stay there. Instead, we fight to get up, stay in the game, and defeat-tackle-cancer. My God is the referee in my cancer scenario and will blow the whistle when the play ends. That's when I die. Although I expected the whistle several times, I never gave up, gave in, or surrendered, and I am still hustling to tackle cancer.

[@charlesivey7785]

Jeff, it must be true that the USNA as well as the other service academies trains us to be "warriors " in all ways. You join my list of cancer warriors that provide a special inspiration laced with hope and appreciation. Congratulation on your good fight! Add me to your list of cheerleaders. 💪

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Charles, Thanks. I appreciate the kind words and support. Best, Jeffrey

[@jeffreysapp5687]

ThNKA, Charles.

[@muskanmittal1210]

Need help for my father who is suffering from this .even one penny can save his life. Requesting everyone's help to save his life.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

My prayers are with you.

[@ryandombster1424]

Wow $62,000 for a helicopter ride that he slept through. Hopefully he had insurance to cover the costs.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

Thankfully, Insurance covered the flight. They were concerned that I could have died in transit had I been transported by ambulance.

[@orscrub3161]

@@jeffreysapp5687…..how are you today?

[@IGiveRainbowKisses]

Sadly oncologists do not tell you the mayhem chemo will cause in your body. Their push is for you to go ahead and start the process.

[@jeffreysapp5687]

This is true.