When a Cancer Doctor Becomes the Bladder Cancer Patient

In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs welcomes Dr. Rick Zera, a retired surgical oncologist who spent decades treating breast cancer before unexpectedly becoming a bladder cancer patient himself. Dr. Zera shares his remarkable story of moving from the operating room to the patient's chair, beginning with a shocking diagnosis of an extremely rare and aggressive bladder cancer. He speaks candidly about the delays and frustrations he faced in getting timely care, the difficult choices between treatment options, and the emotional toll of navigating his own cancer journey after a career spent guiding others through theirs. What follows is an honest, deeply human conversation about risk, resilience, and perspective. Dr. Zera reflects on what he learned about himself, his colleagues, and the vital role of support systems—from family and friends to social workers and fellow patients.