TUCSON, Arizona (KVOA) - Time takes on new meaning when a tumor takes over your brain.

"I am fortunate for every day that I have and I keep that in mind everyday," says Michael Alan Yubeta.

In 2005 Yubeta's time appeared limited. Doctors diagnosed him with Stage 5 Glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor.

"It was a little bit frightening at first, just because no one really expects that type of thing to happen," Yubeta says.

Most patients die within 12 months. But the now 39-year-old didn't let the data get him down.

"If you allow cancer to take over your life, it won't just take over, it will take you completely," Yubeta says.

KVOA