Battling Cancer, Finding Solace in Disc Golf

Thom Shearer's journey is one of resilience and determination. Diagnosed with stage 3 esophageal cancer in November 2019 and later with brain cancer in December 2020, Thom's life was forever changed. However, instead of letting his health struggles define him, he found solace in disc golf.

It all began when his friend Dave Landers took him out on the course to help him cope with the harsh effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Disc golf quickly became a source of comfort, providing Thom with an escape from his medical treatments and doctor appointments. With each round, he discovered a new sense of purpose and passion for the sport.

As a musician and former high school percussion coach, Thom's creative side was rekindled through disc golf. He found joy in the scenic views of Dairy Creek Disc Golf Course in Los Osos, California, where he now resides. The course's challenging layout and breathtaking scenery made it his favorite destination, despite the pay-to-play fee.

Thom's love for music and percussion is still evident today, as he often shares his experiences on social media platforms like Instagram. His story serves as a testament to the power of friendship and community support. Dave Landers played a significant role in Thom's recovery, encouraging him to take up disc golf and providing emotional support throughout his cancer journey.

In an exclusive video interview, Thom opens up about his experience, sharing insights on how disc golf helped him cope with the pandemic, health issues, and personal losses. He credits the sport for giving him a new perspective on life, allowing him to focus on the present moment, and find solace in the beauty of nature.

When asked what advice he would give to others in the disc golf community, Thom emphasizes the importance of picking up trash and being mindful of one's surroundings. His personal message also includes a word of caution for those with brain cancer: "watch out for tree branches!"

Thom's remarkable journey reached new heights when he won his first PDGA C-tier event at Dairy Creek DGC in March 2022. This achievement marked a significant milestone, not just for his disc golf career but also as a testament to his courage and determination.

As Thom continues to share his story with the world, we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from his experiences and be inspired by his resilience. Thank you, Thom, for being an ambassador of hope and positivity in our community.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/member-spotlight-thom-shearer-154152