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November 4 2024

Lorenzo’s Story

Lorenzo Tito: Celebrating life 20 Years Post-Surgery

Today, Lorenzo Tito marks a significant milestone: twenty years since his Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP) surgery after a mesothelioma diagnosis – the longest surviving EPP patient.

Lorenzo’s battle with mesothelioma began in 2004 after years of working at the Cement Works near the Powerhouse in Kandos, New South Wales. Routine X-rays conducted by the Lung Bus program led to further testing, which confirmed his diagnosis. Initially given a prognosis of just 18 months to live, Lorenzo faced the dire reality of his condition with courage.

Determined to fight, he opted for a radical and highly invasive surgical procedure under the care of A/Professor Brian McCaughan. The surgery, which took place on Melbourne Cup Day, involved the removal of his diseased lung, along with parts of the pericardium, diaphragm, and pleura. This was part of a trimodality therapy that included chemotherapy and subsequent radiotherapy.

The recovery was arduous and lengthy, but Lorenzo emerged from the experience with renewed strength. Over the past two decades, he has embraced life, traveling and engaging in handywork for his family. His determination to make the most of his time is evident in his love for simple pleasures, such as spending time with his children and grandchildren, enjoying fish and chips by the beach and indulging in his favourite Darrell Lea liquorice all sorts and bullets.

Lorenzo’s appreciation for music has been a constant source of joy, with a diverse taste that ranges from Billy Joel and Dr. Hook to the operatic tones of Pavarotti. His positivity and zest for life continue to inspire those around him.

For his surgeon, A/Professor Brian McCaughan, this is a wonderful outcome: “I have been following Lorenzo closely in the years post operation and am delighted to witness his long-term survival with malignant mesothelioma.  I believe this is testament to the appropriate management of this particular malignancy in the setting of an active multidisciplinary team, considering all possible options of treatment and selection of the right treatment for the right patient at the right time. Radical surgery in the form of extrapleural pneumonectomy is only recommended in a very small minority of patients with mesothelioma, but in those patients such as Lorenzo, it can result in impressive outcomes and survival. I congratulate Lorenzo on reaching this milestone.”

As he celebrates this remarkable twenty-year milestone, Lorenzo’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, hope and the power of embracing. His story highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity and serves as an inspiration to many.

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