This summer, George Sushkoff and his family took a special vacation to Southern California. Why was it so special?
“Our vacation was originally scheduled for last summer, but we had to postpone it because I was in treatment for colon cancer,” said George. “I’m thankful to be in good health this summer and able to share these wonderful memories with my family.”
In April 2023, George was diagnosed with Stage 1 to Stage 2 colon cancer. George had participated in Swim Across America – Richmond since 2019, and was familiar with the organization and its mission. After his diagnosis, he knew exactly who to turn to for support.
“One of my close friends contacted Rob Butcher, CEO of Swim Across America, and told him my story. By lunchtime that day, I had received a call from Rob to discuss my diagnosis and next steps. By dinnertime the following day, I received a call from a nurse liaison at VCU Massey Cancer Center, who said they wanted to help,” shared George.
“The amount of support I received from my swimming community and from Swim Across America was unbelievable.”
George met with doctors at Virginia Cancer Institute (VCI) and VCU Massey to discuss treatment options. Though he received treatment at VCI, he felt that both centers were collaborating on his care.
“It was comforting to know I had the support of both VCI and VCU Massey. They weren’t fighting over who got to treat me – though they should have,” George jokes. “They were focused on my health and well-being, and me coming out of this a survivor.”
On December 1, 2023, George received his final chemo treatment and on December 23, he had an exam with his surgeon. Scar tissue had formed where the tumor was and George couldn’t have been happier.
“Where the tumor was. The tumor was completely gone! This is considered a full clinical response. I’m not gonna lie, it was an emotional day,” said George.
From that day on, George’s journey is full of joyous and celebratory milestones.
January 8, 2024: George met all the criteria for being considered in remission.
March 25, 2024: The portacath used for chemotherapy treatments was removed.
April 30, 2024: Stopped taking Eliquis, a blood thinner, and the final medication George was prescribed.
May 11, 2024: George competed in the Downriver Rip, a 4.4 mile swim in the James River.
May 26, 2024: George competed in the Reston Lake Swim 1-mile and 2-mile events, placing first in his age group in each event.
June 16, 2024: George competed in the Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association 1-mile swim, placing first in his age group.
June 22, 2024: George participated in the Ocean View Mermaid Festival 2-mile open water swim.
“I was first in my age group for the Mermaid Festival swim, but to be transparent, they did not issue awards. Maybe next year.” joked George.
August 25, 2024: Next up, George will swim in the 6th annual Swim Across America – Richmond community swim at Quest Swimming in Midlothian, Virginia. The community has raised over $320,000 to support their beneficiary, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center since 2019.
Since 2021, George and his team, Team River City, have raised $90,000 and have a goal of raising $30,000 this year.
“Looking back on everything I’ve been through this past year, I’m feeling great. I am completely off medications and survived this awful disease. This year’s SAA-Richmond swim will be even more special in my eyes,” said George.
If you are moved to support George and Team River City, you can donate here.
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