Salazar Family Navigates Dual Cancer Battle

Zak and Cori Salazar, a California couple both aged 40, are simultaneously managing multiple cancer diagnoses while raising their three young daughters. Zak faces terminal glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive brain cancer, while Cori battles both thyroid and a slow-growing form of pancreatic cancer.

The family is focusing on daily life and utilizing resources to discuss mortality with their children.

Zak's Diagnosis: Terminal Glioblastoma Multiforme

Zak Salazar's condition was identified after an ophthalmologist noted swollen optic nerves, leading to an emergency MRI that revealed a large mass in his brain. He has been diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive and terminal brain cancer, with medical professionals forecasting a life expectancy of 12 to 18 months.

Zak undergoes regular brain MRIs. After a new spot was identified, he was advised to restart chemotherapy. However, a second opinion at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston determined the spot was a false alarm, leading to the discontinuation of chemotherapy.

Cori's Multiple Diagnoses: Thyroid and Pancreatic Cancer

Cori Salazar has received two cancer diagnoses. Approximately three years ago, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, which was initially detected by a large neck growth and subsequently surgically removed.

More recently, Cori was diagnosed with a slow-growing form of pancreatic cancer, discovered during a routine scan for kidney stones. For her pancreatic cancer, she underwent surgery to remove her spleen and part of her pancreas and is currently under ongoing medical monitoring.

Prioritizing Family Amidst Health Challenges

The couple has three daughters: Juniper, 6; Delaney, 4; and Luna, 3. Both Zak and Cori have expressed concerns regarding their ability to be present for their children due to their illnesses.

They prioritize ensuring their daughters feel loved, cared for, and safe amidst these health challenges. The family has focused on living in the present and has engaged with resources such as children's books discussing grief and workshops from a death doula to facilitate conversations about mortality with their daughters.