Remembering Kevin Carlsmith - Colgate University Professor of Psychology

Blog post description.

3/10/20242 min read

Introduction:

Kevin Carlsmith was a beacon of inspiration, a man brimming with life who bravely faced immense challenges. This paper chronicles his courageous battle with stage IV lung cancer, highlighting his resilience and the unwavering support system that surrounded him.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosed in February 2009, Kevin received aggressive chemotherapy at Sloan-Kettering and SUNY Upstate. Despite the debilitating side effects, he maintained a positive outlook and continued working part-time. After initial treatment, he switched to a maintenance regimen that allowed him to return to full-time work.

California and Deteriorating Health:

In August 2010, Kevin sought treatment at Stanford University Hospital. Alison's journal entry (October 17, 2011) poignantly details his physical decline. Despite his weakening condition, Kevin's spirit remained strong, as evidenced by his contemplation of further chemotherapy.

Outpouring of Support:

The paper should acknowledge the immense support Kevin received. This could include a brief mention of:

Alison's unwavering care

Visits from family members

The heartfelt "tribute" organized by colleagues at Colgate

Conclusion:

Kevin's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of adversity. He will be remembered for his zest for life, unwavering courage, and the profound impact he had on those around him.

P.S.:

Kevin Carlsmith's journey was not just a tale of bravery in the face of adversity; it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. From the moment he received the devastating diagnosis of stage IV lung cancer in February 2009, Kevin approached his battle with unwavering courage and an indomitable will to live.

Throughout his memoir, Kevin shared the raw and unfiltered reality of his experience, documenting every detail from the initial shock of diagnosis to the final moments of his life. While the names of individuals and places may have been altered to protect privacy, the emotions conveyed within his narrative remain profoundly authentic.

Kevin's treatment journey, marked by grueling chemotherapy sessions and the harsh realities of living with advanced cancer, serves as a poignant reminder of the toll this disease can take on both body and spirit. Despite the debilitating side effects of his treatments, Kevin never lost sight of his determination to continue living life to the fullest.

Even as his physical condition deteriorated, Kevin's unwavering spirit continued to shine through. In an entry dated October 17, 2011, he candidly shared the challenges he faced, from declining energy levels to the loss of physical abilities. Yet, amidst the darkness, there remained a glimmer of hope as Kevin contemplated the possibility of returning to chemotherapy in pursuit of more time with his loved ones.

The outpouring of support Kevin received from friends, family, colleagues, and students alike served as a source of strength and inspiration throughout his journey. From the loving care provided by his mother-in-law to the heartfelt tributes organized by his colleagues at Colgate University, Kevin was surrounded by an unwavering community of love and support.

As Kevin bravely faced each day with grace and courage, his memoir serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Though his physical presence may no longer grace this earth, his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his story.

In closing, Kevin's memoir is more than just a recounting of his battle with cancer; it is a testament to the enduring power of love, hope, and human connection in the face of life's greatest challenges. May his story continue to inspire and uplift all who have the privilege of reading it.