93-year-old esophageal cancer survivor makes the most of every day

When Gus Kunze was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2011, his daughter Joyce Matula laid out all the facts for her 90-year-old dad. She presented him with all the possible esophageal cancer treatment options and told him that she would support him, whether or not he decided to receive treatment.

Undergoing esophageal cancer treatment
He began proton therapy treatment at MD Anderson.

"For a long time, MD Anderson has been the place to go if you have cancer," Joyce says. "People come here from all over the world."

In fact, Gus' great-granddaughter was also treated at MD Anderson.

In January 2012, his doctors announced that Gus was cancer-free.

Gus and his wife of 67 years live in their home in Beeville, Texas. He spends his time riding around his ranch on his three-wheeler or driving to visiting his friends in town or enjoying time with his three children, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Making the most of each day
People are always asking what the secret behind Gus'vitality is.

"I think it's his attitude," Joyce says. "He enjoys every minute of every day."

Gus served as an Army corporal from 1941-1945 and fought in Europe during WWII. He says he was grateful he lived to return to his family, and decided to make the most of it.

"My doctors tell me I'm one of a kind," says Gus. "They just don't make 'em like me anymore."