Healing, Innovation, and Gratitude: A Remarkable Recovery from Melanoma
When Bryan Huston sat down for a family dinner in January 2023, he had no idea his life was about to change. Moments later, sudden numbness and confusion led him to Stoughton Hospital, and he was swiftly airlifted to UW Hospital for what appeared to be a stroke.
A craniotomy the next day revealed the source: a brain tumor caused by metastatic melanoma. Even with this distressing diagnosis, Bryan’s resolve never wavered. “I don’t let anything beat me,” he says.
The Huston Family
The stroke left Bryan fully paralyzed on his right side, and several tumors remained. Immediately, the UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center assembled a comprehensive team — neurosurgeons, oncologists, physical and occupational therapists — each committed to giving Bryan every chance to heal.
With guidance from radiation oncologist Adam Burr, Bryan and his wife, Stacey, chose an aggressive path forward. He underwent 10 rounds of full-brain radiation, followed by immunotherapy under the care of medical oncologist Vincent Ma. Although Bryan had to discontinue immunotherapy because of complications, its lasting impact helps keep the cancer from returning.
Today, Bryan’s scans show no active cancer, and he remains in remission. He has regained mobility, shifting from a wheelchair to walking with a cane. Stacey credits the compassionate, steady support of the Carbone team: “I knew he was well cared for even when I couldn’t be at his side.”
Surrounded by family, friends, and a generous community, Bryan has found strength in every gesture of support. The lifesaving care he received was made possible through the remarkable generosity of Carbone Cancer Center donors. Now, in addition to mentoring his son in the family business, he and Stacey are embracing travel, work, and a hopeful new normal.
“Bryan is walking proof,” Ma says, “that even stage 4 melanoma can be beaten.”
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