Surviving and Thriving – A Journey of Hope with Tenor Pete McCallum
Surviving from and thriving after cancer are ultimate blessings. Personally, I have experienced three different cancers and am in remission with all of them. There are four important lessons I have learned during my cancer journey that have enhanced my perspective on life. First, growing in your faith is absolutely paramount for moving forward with physical and emotional healing. Second the loving support of a strong family builds determination and provides much-needed solace during the emotional turmoil this insidious disease causes. Third, it is critically important to resist the temptation to withdraw from social activities because being around others bolsters the psychological “edge” and grit that are necessary to find the strength to battle this disease. Finally, being involved in something “bigger and greater than you” and “giving back” rearranges life’s focus towards making a positive contribution to the world by thinking beyond yourself.
I have been profoundly blessed in numerous ways throughout my cancer journey. For example, our oldest son submitted my name to the Baltimore Ravens to be recognized on the stadium field on October 12, 2025 along with other cancer survivors who are currently in remission. My younger sister, Michelle, who lives in Seattle made a special trip to Maryland so she could witness this auspicious event. Because Michelle is a cancer survivor, our son submitted her name as well and she was also selected to participate in this honor with me. Walking out on the field before halftime holding Michelle’s hand
to be recognized by thousands of supportive fans was an exhilarating experience. It also was an honor to meet with other cancer warriors from various walks of life, listen to their personal journey stories, and witness their incredible courage.
Another blessing I have encountered is being integrally involved with my Deer Creek Chorale family. Abundant research exists that clearly documents the countless benefits of music, particularly related to having a positive impact on emotional, physical, and psychological health. There were many times during my cancer experiences that singing with the Deer Creek Chorale yielded the inspiration I needed to overcome some disease-related obstacle. The healing balm of music, along with the support of my fellow choristers, served as sources of personal resilience and strength. I owe a profound debt of gratitude to my Deer Creek Chorale colleagues because music, fellowship, and serving others are powerful components of the healing process.
-Pete McCallum, DCC Tenor