My desire to take on this challenge dates back to September 2020. After experiencing some unfamiliar pain and discomfort I scheduled a routine check-up with my doctor. Within a week I had three follow-up visits and found myself shocked to be scheduling surgery to remove a tumor. Shortly after surgery I was diagnosed with testicular cancer and found myself in a strange period of uncertainty. Mentally, I became stressed thinking about what came next and doubts crept into my mind regarding my ability to father children in the future. Physically, I experienced pain and soreness and I became frustrated with my inability to perform routine tasks. We waited anxiously for results from my bloodwork, CT scans, and numerous other tests to ensure the cancer had not spread. This led to a huge sigh of relief when, two months after my first doctor visit, I was told there were no further signs of cancer in my body. This entire ordeal was kept very private and I am fortunate I was able to lean heavily on my wife and family to deal with these challenges and keep a positive mindset throughout the process.

I want to dedicate this event to everyone out there that has been effected by cancer in any way. So many have been directly or indirectly impacted by a battle with cancer…whether it is you, your family members, or your friends. Any small amount we can contribute to help those at any stage of their battle is a win in my book! Just like Haymaker’s says “Not every fight ends at the bell”