Hepatocellular Carcinoma Journey: Takumi Matsuzaki (Machaki)'s Story of Resilience:
Hepatocellular carcinoma journey: Takumi Matsuzaki, known as Machaki, was diagnosed with stage 4B liver cancer in 2009 at age 40. Despite the terminal prognosis, he survived through multiple surgeries, complications, and a relentless spirit. This article details his diagnosis, treatments, life philosophy, and his unique “Doya Fes” charity event.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Journey: Finding Identity and Dreams:
Finding Himself Through His Thyroid Cancer Journey
Machaki’s hepatocellular carcinoma journey is more than a fight against cancer—it’s about discovering his true self and pursuing dreams. A former welfare school teacher, he quit his job after his diagnosis, expecting to die. Instead, he found purpose in starting Doya Fes, a charity event for cancer patients to give back to society. Inspired by musician Kiyoshiro Imawano, Machaki embraced a “doya” (proud) attitude, creating a platform for cancer patients to live boldly. His dream is to show that cancer patients can contribute, not just receive, challenging the “2 in 1 will get cancer” statistic with proactive hope.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Journey: Inspiring Quotes:
- “Don’t panic, you won’t die that quickly.”: “Rushing decisions can lead to mistakes. Face yourself honestly, that’s what I think.”
- “Live with a doya face.”: “Cancer patients can give back, not just receive. Live proudly, that’s what I think.”
- “Charity for those who might get cancer.”: “If my experience helps others, that’s true contribution, that’s what I think.”
(がんノート)
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Journey: Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Dec 2009: Discovery
- Human checkup revealed elevated tumor markers (AFP). Other tests normal.
- Ultrasound showed no tumor; suspected liver cirrhosis.
- Feb 2010: Diagnosis
- Rising tumor markers led to a week-long hospital stay. Tiny tumor found near bile duct.
- Early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma confirmed.
- Mar 2010: First Surgery
- Laparoscopic tumor removal. Quick recovery, discharged in a week.
- Jun 2011: Recurrence
- Tumor markers rose again, but no visible tumors on imaging.
- Started sorafenib (molecular targeted drug).
- Oct 2011: Multiple Tumors
- 15 small tumors found. Treated with TACE (transarterial chemoembolization).
- Oct 2012: Critical Condition
- Collapsed from overwork and treatment. Given 6 months to live.
- Major surgery removed two-thirds of liver. Severe complications (bile leakage, lung fluid) led to 6-month hospitalization.
- 2013 Onward: Ongoing Struggles
- Repeated bile duct issues and infections. Continued TACE and monitoring.
- 2014: ICU after vomiting blood post-event. Recovered and resumed activities.
- 2025: Current Status
- Manages complications (bile duct inflammation, leg cramps). Uses high-cost medical expense limits to manage costs.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Journey: Understanding the Disease
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver cancer originating in hepatocytes, often linked to hepatitis, alcohol, or fatty liver disease. Machaki’s case was detected early via tumor markers.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Symptoms: Often none in early stages. Advanced cases show pain, jaundice, fatigue.
- Diagnosis:
- Tumor Markers: AFP and PIVKA-II indicate HCC.
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, MRI detect tumors.
- Biopsy: Confirms malignancy if needed.
Treatments
- Surgery: Tumor resection or liver transplant.
- TACE: Blocks tumor blood supply with chemo.
- Molecular Drugs: Sorafenib slows tumor growth.
- Immunotherapy: Emerging option, less common in Machaki’s time.
Prognosis
- Early-stage 5-year survival: 50–70%. Stage 4B: ~10%. Machaki’s aggressive treatment enabled long-term survival.
References
- Japan Society of Hepatology Guidelines 2021
URL: https://www.jsh.or.jp/medical/guidelines/
Details: HCC diagnosis and treatment protocols. - National Cancer Center Japan: Liver Cancer
URL: https://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/cancer_types/liver/
Details: HCC symptoms, stats, and prognosis. - WHO: Liver Cancer
URL: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
Details: Global liver cancer data.