Dave Lanning has one of those voices most Oklahoman’s have heard at some point over the past 30 years. His career in sports radio goes back to the 1980s, working for stations like WKY, KTOK and now the Radio Oklahoma Ag Network.

Recently, Lanning’s role has been one of caretaker for his wife, Blair, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in September.

“Her treatment was expected to start in mid-to-late October,” Lanning said. “However, during the procedure to install her chemo port, she suffered a brain hemorrhage and ended up being in a coma for about a month. Once she was in a situation where they could let her wake up, she was in rehab and therapy for another two months. She came home right before Christmas.”

Sitting with Blair in Mercy’s intensive care unit for that month was a trying time, Lanning says, waiting and hoping she would wake up, but not knowing what permanent damage she may have suffered. Getting beyond that, they still had a cancer journey ahead of them.

“Originally Blair had three small spots on her left breast,” he said. “They were a total of about nine centimeters. Following the chemo treatments, only one spot remains today, and it is less than one centimeter. So, we are very thankful.”

Earlier this summer, Blair had a lumpectomy which Lanning says was very successful.

“This time around it was very routine,” he said. “It took about 30 minutes and all of the cancerous area was removed. She has started immune infusion therapy which will go on for about a year and then she will also start radiation in September.”

Unfortunately, this is not the first time Lanning has dealt with someone fighting breast cancer.

“I lost my mom to breast cancer in the early ‘70s,” he said. “I clearly remember the physical and emotional trauma she went through after losing both breasts and the effects of the incredibly strong chemo she had to go through back then. The advancements, thanks in large part to research by the American Cancer Society, have made Blair’s journey somewhat easier compared to the ordeal my mother suffered through.”

The emotional support patients get is a significant part of recovery, Lanning added.

“I know the American Cancer Society has led the way with research and advancements in breast cancer treatments, but also the multiple ways they help support the patient and their families. I think the biggest thing for folks going through this is to continue to have faith but also stay as positive as you can, not only for your partner but for other members of your family.”

Lanning said a bonus has been their daughter, Olivia.

“One advantage I had is that our daughter is of college age and a nursing student,” he said. “It was still very difficult, but we were able to talk frankly about what was going on. In fact, when possible, Olivia and I were both in the meetings with the doctors. You are a team, which makes fighting cancer a family affair. Because it impacts everyone in your family.”

Playing the role of caregiver is a far cry from the sports announcer’s booth, and Lanning hopes his journey alongside his wife will be an inspiration to others. They have also set up a Go Fund Me account to help with expenses.

“Again, just stay positive and never lose faith,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for support when you need it and take life one day at a time. Miracles can happen.”

The American Cancer Society of Oklahoma hosts its annual “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk” Oct. 17 in a virtual setting. Visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/okcok.