William Shatner says surviving stage four cancer alongside his daughter has transformed how they view life, family, and the future. The pair revealed for the first time they underwent treatment at nearly the same time before both were declared cancer-free.
They credited advances in cancer treatment and strong family support for their recoveries. The experience also inspired their new podcast that centers on living with greater purpose.
In their interview with PEOPLE, Melanie recalled one of the darkest moments during chemotherapy, saying she called her father believing she was dying. Shatner arrived at her home within minutes and comforted her with what she described as a daddy bear hug.
"He said, 'This is going to be a blip in your life. You're going to get through this, and it'll be a memory,'" Melanie said.
After Melanie neared the end of treatment, Shatner discovered a lump on his cheek that led to his own diagnosis. Reflecting on the news, he said doctors told him, "You got cancer. If you came in later, you would have been dead."
Shatner said surviving cancer has deepened his appreciation for everyday moments.
"I'm thinking of the miracle of a hummingbird, and of my dog taking a ball, and my children," he said. "I'm aware of the magic of it all."
Melanie said cancer changed her outlook as well, and overcoming cancer changed her life.
"I'm not so afraid anymore, and there's so much freedom and joy," she said.
Shatner is best known for portraying Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise and has also appeared in television series including T.J. Hooker, Boston Legal, and The Practice, along with numerous films and television specials. His daughter, Melanie Shatner Gretsch, is an actress and entrepreneur. She is married to actor Joel Gretsch.