Sept. 14, 2025: When Brad Cantleberry was diagnosed with stage 4 large B-cell lymphoma in July 2024, his world shifted—but not in the way you might expect.
“I had come to the realization that this could be it,” Brad recalls. “Because tomorrow is not promised to any one of us. But from day one, I knew I was in the right place.”
His cancer journey started subtly. In late 2023, Brad began experiencing symptoms that felt like a lingering cold—persistent congestion, fatigue, and occasional shortness of breath. “I thought I was just dealing with something viral,” he said. “Nothing alarming at first.” But over the next couple of months, those symptoms grew more severe. He started losing weight and feeling run-down. Eventually, what began as a visit to Lakewood’s walk-in clinic led to a referral for further testing, including a biopsy.
Brad with Lakewood oncologist, Dr. Wade Swenson.
The turning point came during a consultation with a pulmonologist in St. Cloud. “He looked at me and said, ‘This has a cancer flavor to it,’” Brad remembers. “But then he told me something I’ll never forget. He said, ‘You have one of the best cancer doctors in the entire Upper Midwest—just 25 minutes from your doorstep.’ ”
That doctor was Dr. Wade Swenson, a medical oncologist at Lakewood Health System.
From the very beginning, Brad says his experience with Lakewood’s oncology team was personal, compassionate, and responsive. “I’m literally one person in Dr. Swenson’s care,” he said. “And yet, he makes me feel like I’m the only person in his care.”
While on vacation, Dr. Swenson took the time to review Brad’s results remotely—and the urgency was clear. He placed treatment orders immediately, ensuring Brad wouldn’t have to wait to begin care. That level of commitment meant the world to Brad and his family.
His nearly five-month chemotherapy regimen was intense. Along the way, he faced complications, including a bout of pancreatitis and critically low magnesium levels. But every time, the Lakewood team was there—ready, responsive, and steady in their support. “They knew my name. They knew my story. And they knew how to care for me—not just treat me,” he said.
Brad and Lakewood oncology provider, Jessica Nybakken.
Brad’s ties to Lakewood go back more than three decades. He first became a patient in the early 90s under the care of Dr. Sarah Israelson and has continued his primary care relationship with Dr. Christine Albrecht, who also played a pivotal role in coordinating his care during cancer treatment. “It’s like being surrounded by family,” he said. “They know me, they care about me, and they fight for me.”
Throughout his journey, Brad relied heavily on his faith, his family, and the power of perspective. “Even in my hardest moments, I kept telling people, ‘Who’s got it better than me?’ ” he says with a smile. “And I was saying that long before I heard the word remission.”
Now in remission, Brad refers to his Lakewood team as “heaven-sent.” His voice cracks with emotion when he reflects on all he’s been through: “Of all the things you could ask for in this life—you could have all the money, all the toys, the best job—but none of it means anything without your health.”
And when asked to sum up what Lakewood has meant to him, his answer comes easily: “Regardless of diagnosis, regardless of outcome—it feels like home.”
To anyone facing uncertainty, Brad offers this advice: “If you don’t know where to turn, pick up the phone and call Lakewood,” he says. “You’ll be home.”
Cancer care that feels like home starts here. Call (218) 894-8750 or visit lakewoodhealthsystem.com.