How Tim Survived Stage 4 Cancer with Repurposed Drugs
In 2017, Tim Schooley noticed a bump on his cheek. At first, he thought it was dental-related. But after a series of referrals, a biopsy revealed a rare and slow-growing cancer: Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), a type of salivary gland cancer.
“I was told there was a possibility that I might not be able to open my left eye again after surgery. But the operation went swimmingly.”
Tim underwent a 12-hour surgery followed by traditional radiation. The treatment successfully removed the tumor. At that point, he was cancer-free and because of the slow-growing nature of this type of cancer, doctors were hopeful it might never return.
But it did.
Scans later showed the cancer had returned this time spreading to his lungs, making it stage 4 and considered incurable.
Conventional Journey
In late 2018, scans showed that the cancer had returned this time in Tim’s lungs. Despite having six tumors, Tim still didn’t feel any symptoms.
“My oncologist said, ‘We don’t really have any great standard treatment strategy for this… but we can connect you to clinical trials.’”
Over the next few years, Tim enrolled in three clinical trials. Though it was unclear how effective they were, he believes they bought him time. Time to ask better questions. Time to explore other options.
Exploring Alternatives
It was during this in-between period that Tim began researching integrative strategies. An integrative oncologist handed him a study on intermittent fasting and cancer, and it clicked. He dove into books like “Tripping Over the Truth” and “Radical Remission”, learning about metabolic therapies and the terrain theory of cancer.
In 2021, Tim was prescribed a protocol of four repurposed medications: metformin, doxycycline, mebendazole, and a statin. The overlap between metabolic disease and cancer became increasingly clear to him.
“I was prescribed metformin for cancer after already reversing my type 2 diabetes with fasting. That connection blew my mind.”
Tim had used fasting to put his type 2 diabetes into remission years earlier without medication. So when he saw metformin, a drug typically used to manage diabetes now appearing in his cancer treatment, it confirmed his growing belief that cancer, like diabetes, could be approached as a metabolic disease.
Integrative Treatment Path
Tim joined the Cancer Metabolic Optimization Program (CMOP) under Dr. Meakin’s guidance. Since he was already on a metabolic protocol, the new care plan built on what was working, continuing the same core medications, with personalized adjustments over time.
He also committed to daily routines that supported his internal terrain including clean eating, time-restricted eating, targeted supplements like turmeric, milk thistle, green tea, and consistent physical activity.
“I built a daily life around the routines of staying healthy. I meditate while my tea steeps. I bike to scans. I eat kale and eggs every morning. It’s not extreme anymore, it’s just my normal.”
Results & Where He Is Now
Years of steady effort paid off.
In May 2025, after rounds of stereotactic radiation (targeted to his lung tumors) and ongoing metabolic support, Tim’s scans came back with no evidence of disease.
“There was just one little asterisk left, a tiny tumor that wasn’t growing. Now, it’s gone. It feels surreal.”
Even though his oncologist was cautious in tone, the scan report was clear. And Tim? He feels strong, empowered, and hopeful.
“I’ve worked myself into great functional shape. It’s strange I’ve had six tumors and never felt a symptom. Now I just feel healthy.”
Final Reflection
Tim’s approach wasn’t a single fix. It was a layered, patient-driven journey anchored in metabolic healing, personal agency, and curiosity.
“I wish more people understood how much they can do for themselves. Don’t outsource your healing. Focus on your terrain. Stay curious.”
He also acknowledges the role conventional treatments played from the skilled surgical team to radiation and clinical trials. But for him, healing began when he stopped waiting for a silver bullet and started building a supportive internal environment.
“I used the money I earned from participating in clinical trials to pay for my repurposed meds. So really, my off-label scholarship was sponsored by Big Pharma,” he joked.
For Tim, recovery is still a question mark. But for now, he’s living cancer-free and with a sense of peace, clarity, and gratitude.
Wondering If A Metabolic Approach Could Support Your Care?
Tim’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when conventional treatment is combined with repurposed medications, lifestyle changes, and a proactive mindset.
If you’re curious about options like these, explore the Cancer Metabolic Optimization Program.
You’ll find expert-led support, real patient stories, and a clear breakdown of how the program works.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What repurposed drugs did Tim use during his metabolic cancer treatment?
