Still Moving Forward: Philip's Journey with Colorectal Cancer

An Active Life Interrupted

At 72 years old, Philip Borba has no plans to slow down.

A longtime Stamford resident, Philip has always lived an active life. An avid cyclist for more than 30 years, he spent countless hours on his bike, often riding more than 100 miles in a single day. He could also be found playing pickup basketball with his son or kicking a soccer ball around with his grandchildren.

When a routine colonoscopy with Dr. Neal Schamberg in August 2023 revealed a tumor, cancer was the last thing on his mind.

What followed was a whirlwind of appointments, consultations, and scans. Just three weeks after his colonoscopy, Philip underwent surgery at Stamford Health. Pathology results confirmed stage three colorectal cancer, and discussions quickly turned to the next phase of treatment.

Treatment at The Bennett Cancer Center

Soon after surgery, Philip met Stamford Health oncologist Dr. Salvatore Del Prete, who would guide his care and become a trusted partner throughout his cancer journey. While he explored treatment options at several leading cancer centers, Philip ultimately chose the Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center because of the confidence and trust he felt after his first meeting with Dr. Del Prete. He was impressed by Dr. Del Prete’s extensive experience, thoughtful preparation, and the time he took to thoroughly address every question. Philip was equally reassured by Stamford Health's affiliation with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, which gave him access to world-class cancer expertise and research close to home.

“Dr. Del Prete is a very strong advocate for patients,” Philip said. “He is a highly skilled and experienced physician who understands that every cancer diagnosis is unique. His attention to my case has benefited me in innumerable ways. Throughout my treatment, he has sought input from research physicians at Dana-Farber on my complex and evolving case, made me aware of clinical trial opportunities, advocated with insurance companies when treatments fell outside standard guidelines, and coordinated care across multiple teams, including nurse practitioners, nurse case management, imaging, infusion, and laboratory services. Over the past three years and more than seventy-five office visits, Dr. Del Prete has patiently listened to and answered my many questions. I cannot imagine having a more attentive oncologist directing my care.”

Beginning in October 2023, Philip completed eight cycles of chemotherapy. While treatment brought challenging side effects, including liver and kidney complications, he remained committed to staying on schedule and maintaining a positive mindset.

Back on the Bike

Philip completed his initial course of treatment in March 2024 and began gradually returning to the activities he loved. Throughout treatment, he set a goal for himself: to be back on his bike during a planned trip to California. By April 2024, after six months of treatment, and only one week after completing the six-month chemotherapy treatment, he accomplished that goal with a trip to California to cycle with his three siblings.

For Philip, staying active has been about more than physical recovery. It has been a mindset that helped him navigate cancer.

“Attitude, physical activity, and a strong support system are key for cancer treatment,” Philip said. “You need a can-do, never-quit attitude and a strong support system.”

That mindset evolved into a philosophy he calls, "accelerating life."

"Part of my attitude is to accelerate life," he said. "Activities I may want to have experienced in five years; I'm prioritizing and moving into a one-year plan."

Rather than putting important experiences on hold, Philip focuses on making them now, whether it's a family gathering, special event, or meaningful trip.

"A very important part of maintaining a hopeful and upbeat attitude is to have plans," he said.

Each year, he revisits those goals and creates new ones.

"When I'm fortunate enough to have more time, I look at the list and make plans for another year."

Just as important as his outlook is the support surrounding him. Philip credits his family, friends, and care team at Stamford Health with helping him navigate some of the most difficult moments of his journey. While Dr. Del Prete leads his care, Philip is quick to recognize the contributions of nurse care coordinator Vanessa Boral, the nurse practitioners, imaging specialists, infusion staff, and blood draw team at the Bennett Cancer Center. Their expertise, compassion, and coordination have been a constant source of support throughout his treatment.

“Cancer is a mental game,” he says. “You need to decide every day that you’re going to do this.”

For a time, things appeared to be moving in the right direction. Philip was back on his bike, spending time with family, and focusing on making the most of each day.

Facing a Setback, But Always Moving Forward

Then, during a follow-up appointment in October 2024, scans revealed that the cancer had spread. Philip was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer – a stage four condition.

Philip and Dr. Del Prete immediately discussed next steps and adjusted Philip’s treatment plan. He began targeted therapy that successfully controlled the disease for 18 months. In April 2026, when scans showed progression with a different biomarker, Dr. Del Prete guided Philip to a new treatment.

Today, Philip continues to receive care at Stamford Health’s Bennett Cancer Center; is doing very well, and in an excellent mental state of mind. Since April 2026, when he started third-line treatment, Philip has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment with bi-weekly infusions while also receiving routine imaging to monitor the cancer.

Stamford Health’s partnership with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center has provided Philip with an added advantage. Dr. Del Prete regularly presents his case to specialists at Dana-Farber, giving Philip access to additional expertise and treatment perspectives while remaining close to home.

Family, Gratitude, and Looking Ahead

Through every stage of his journey, family has remained Philip’s greatest source of motivation. Mary, his wife of forty-six years, has been to every infusion and office visit with Philip. He spends time with his son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren at least once a week, and those moments together have taken on even greater significance since his diagnosis.

Now retired, Philip continues to stay active and enjoy the people and activities that matter most to him. Whether he’s spending time outdoors, exercising, or simply sharing time with loved ones, he remains focused on living life as fully as possible. Since his diagnosis in September 2023, he has completed multi-day cycling trips in Germany, Idaho, and Pennsylvania. He also traveled with his family to London and Disney World (twice)!

“I am really grateful that my life is being extended. Without treatment, I probably wouldn’t be here,” Philip said. “I am getting some quality time with my family and close friends and the world at large.”

Along the way, Philip has developed a meaningful habit. He keeps track of life's milestones, documenting important moments and sharing them with Dr. Del Prete, grateful for each one he has been able to experience. “Given the hand I’ve been dealt, I’m the luckiest guy in the world,” he said.

Surrounded by a strong support system and a care team he trusts, Philip continues to approach each day with gratitude, determination, and optimism. Whether he’s spending time with family, documenting another milestone, planning his next adventure or heading out for a bike ride, he remains focused on what matters most: moving forward.