Man Undergoes Kidney Cancer Surgery, Faces Unexpected Pain

Ethan Hauser recounts the physical and emotional toll of his cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Ethan Hauser, a 55-year-old journalist, was diagnosed with kidney cancer after a routine CT scan. He underwent a radical nephrectomy, the complete removal of his kidney, and faced an unexpectedly painful recovery process. Hauser describes the emotional distance he initially tried to maintain, the shattering of his trust in his own body, and the overwhelming pain that followed the surgery, which he says was far worse than he had anticipated.

Why it matters

Hauser's story sheds light on the disconnect between the sophistication of modern medicine and the physical and emotional toll that major surgery can take on a patient. His experience highlights the importance of open communication between doctors and patients about the realities of recovery, as well as the need for greater empathy and support for those facing serious health challenges.

The details

Hauser was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, or kidney cancer, after a routine CT scan. He underwent a radical nephrectomy, the complete removal of his kidney, which he was told was a "routine" procedure. However, Hauser found the recovery process to be far more painful and difficult than he had expected, with intense, unrelenting pain that lasted for weeks. He struggled to trust his own body and the reassurances of his medical team, texting them daily photos of his incision in search of reassurance.

  • On Memorial Day, Hauser received the call from the radiologist informing him of his cancer diagnosis.
  • Two days after the diagnosis, Hauser spoke with the first of several urologic surgeons, who recommended the radical nephrectomy.
  • About a month later, Hauser and his wife took an Uber to the hospital for the early-morning surgery.
  • Hauser spent three nights in the hospital recovering from the surgery.
  • The unbearable pain came when Hauser went home after the surgery.

The players

Ethan Hauser

A 55-year-old journalist who was diagnosed with kidney cancer and underwent a radical nephrectomy.

Radiologist

The medical professional who called Hauser to inform him of his kidney cancer diagnosis.

Urologic Surgeon

The doctor who recommended the radical nephrectomy procedure to Hauser.

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What they’re saying

“You have kidney cancer.”

— Radiologist

“I just want to tell you, this is a notoriously painful surgery to recover from.”

— Nurse

What’s next

Hauser will continue to undergo less-toxic immunotherapy treatments as part of his ongoing cancer care.

The takeaway

Hauser's experience highlights the need for greater transparency and communication between doctors and patients about the realities of major surgery and recovery, as well as the importance of providing comprehensive emotional and psychological support to those facing serious health challenges.