Joshua Silva Featured on Cancer Interviews Podcast

In a recent episode of the Cancer Interviews podcast, Joshua Silva of Houston, Texas, shared his journey as a survivor of clear cell renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer. Josh, 33, first noticed gastrointestinal issues and lower back discomfort but initially dismissed the symptoms. It wasn’t until a night of severe abdominal pain that he went to the ER, where a CT scan revealed both an inflamed appendix and a mass on his left kidney.

Josh underwent an emergency appendectomy, followed by a partial nephrectomy to remove the cancer. The surgery successfully saved his kidney, however, recovery was complicated by an infection lasting several weeks. Josh credits his proactive approach, support from loved ones, and therapy for helping him navigate both the physical and emotional challenges of treatment.

Josh found community through the Kidney Cancer Association, which offered resources, virtual webinars, and connections with others who understood what he was going through. Now at about 98% of his pre-diagnosis health, Josh has embraced life with renewed perspective, returning to his hobbies, including golf, with gratitude and energy.

When asked what advice he would give someone newly diagnosed, Josh said: “Tame your mind. Do not let yourself get caught in worst-case scenarios. Your body is going through a traumatic experience, but if you manage your mind and allow the process to take place, there is a greener side to all of this.”

Watch the full interview of the Cancer Interviews podcast on YouTube! You can also read Josh’s personal story or listen to his episode ‘Can You Be Fit with One Kidney?” in Season 4, Episode 6 of our podcast Kidney Cancer Unfiltered.