A cancer survivor's advice: research, persistence and second opinions

Mita said that 10 years ago he could not have predicted this measure of success against such an aggressive cancer, and he's hopeful medical science will see more advances in the coming years. With some cancers, he said, doctors are now able to skip chemotherapy and radiation in favor of meds like those used to treat Clough.

Cabanillas shared his optimism, saying survival rates at MD Anderson have improved with some forms of anaplastic thyroid cancer by using "immunotherapy in combination with targeted therapy."

In her kitchen a few days ago, with the girls' college diplomas and family photos hanging on the walls, Clough said it's all been overwhelming at times, and Dorio chimed in on his own worries and determination to remain strong for her sake. Clough's life has been consumed by doctor visits, surgical procedures, continued unpleasant side effects from treatment and the constant anxiety of awaiting the next test results.

"I never felt like it was too much," Clough said. "There are times when I think, I'm so tired of this. But it's never been too much, and I think that's because of my loved ones."

Dorio, meanwhile, put his practice on hold to focus on the house-call patient who lives in his own home. He's been putting off hip replacement surgery, too, and uses a cane.

It's more than a little helpful, Clough said, when, in the midst of a life-threatening medical crisis, the person you live with is a doctor. She said she never felt that she could beat cancer entirely, "but that I could keep it under control. And I still have that hope." Each day, she said, is a bonus.

Clough shed a few tears as she told her story, but also flashed a radiant smile.

"I was supposed to be gone, but I'm not. So every day is 'Wow,' you know? I get to see my daughters, and in the process of this I had my first grandchild."

The baby boy is now 11 months old.

His name is Robin.