Hope, Precision, and a New Chapter: Walt Williams’ Journey with Proton Therapy

When Walt Williams walked into the Thompson Proton Center for the first time, he wasn’t just seeking treatment. He was searching for clarity, compassion, and a path forward. He found all that and more.

An Unexpected Discovery

A retired management consultant and executive, Williams spent his life solving complex problems and mentoring young leaders through his work with the Kappa Sigma fraternity at the University of Tennessee. But nothing prepared him for the shock of a prostate cancer diagnosis.

“I’ve never been sick a day in my life,” Williams shared. “No symptoms, no warning signs—just a routine physical and a slightly elevated PSA. I thought it had to be a mistake.”

Prostate Cancer by the Numbers

Though Williams’ diagnosis came as a shock, his experience is far from rare. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Estimates predict over 313,000 new cases in the U.S. in 2025, a sobering reminder of how common this disease is.

And yet, there is hope. Today, more than 3.5 million men are living as prostate cancer survivors—Walt Williams among them. His journey underscores not just the importance of early detection, but the power of personalized care, informed decisions, and compassionate support.

A Turning Point

At first, Williams believed his situation was uncommon. “I thought I was one of a few—but I quickly realized I was one of many,” he said. “That realization changed everything.”

Initially, he received two options: monitor the cancer or undergo surgery. Williams wasn’t satisfied. Fortunately, a neighbor mentioned proton therapy and a third, more targeted option came into view.

That conversation became a turning point, leading him to the Thompson Proton Center. There he met radiation oncologist Ryan Grover, MD, known for his compassionate care and clinical precision.

A Different Kind of Care

From the moment he arrived, Williams noticed a difference. “The environment was completely different from what I’d experienced elsewhere. Everyone from the front desk to the treatment team was kind, professional, and genuinely invested in my care.”

Throughout his 28 treatments, Williams’ days began early. He was often the first patient through the doors, allowing him to complete his sessions and return home by mid-morning. He experienced no major side effects and was able to continue working and enjoying life throughout his treatment.

“They were always one step ahead of me. That kind of guidance is priceless when you’re navigating something this personal.”

Ringing the Bell and Beyond

On his final day of treatment, Williams rang the bell in the Thompson Proton Center lobby area. The tradition marks the end of a patient’s proton therapy journey. “I didn’t expect to get emotional, but I did. It felt like a weight had been lifted,” he said.

However, instead of closing a chapter, Williams opened a new one. Inspired by his experience, he joined the Thompson Proton Center Ambassador Program, a community of survivors who offer encouragement and share their stories to support others on similar paths.

“I feel like this was a revival experience for me,” he shared at his ambassador event. “If there’s anything I can do to help somebody with this, I’d be happy to do it.”

Now cancer-free, Williams continues to share a message of hope with patients just starting their treatment journey, saying:

“Welcome. As you begin your proton therapy journey, know that you are not alone. The doctors, nurses, and support staff are highly skilled and deeply experienced. Your hope is real—and it should be.”

To learn more about proton therapy visit the Thompson Proton Center website.