Eric Ricci , 54, kidney cancer, Peabody, and Dr. Brad McGregor, Genitourinary Oncology, Dana-Farber join the show

What started as regular back pain, that could be explained as kidney-stones, soon evolved into extreme pain that called for medical attention. In December 2016, Eric was diagnosed with kidney cancer after a CAT scan identified a lump on his kidney and enlarged lymph nodes. 

Shortly after his diagnosis, Eric endured a 9-hour long surgery and became involved with a clinical trial on the recommendation of his oncologist, Dr. Brad McGregor. From 2016 to January of this year, he received frequent immunotherapy treatments. Today, he receives treatment and scans every three weeks. 

Eric is a School Resource Officer at eight schools in Peabody. He’s joined by a Black English Lab comfort dog, named Ella, whose namesake is a 4th grade girl who passed away from brain cancer at South School. 

Eric also enjoys visiting Lake Ossipee, participating in charity work at the police station, and running an annual Peabody baseball game. He’s supported by his wife, Donna, and children, Erica, David, and Nicholas. 

Eric describes Dana-Farber as a family-friendly environment, allowing him to feel comfortable during treatment. From doctors to employees at the front desk -- everyone knows your name. One infusion nurse, who is also an experienced makeup artist, grew close to the family and even did the make up for Eric’s daughter’s wedding.