11/09/2016
Hey everyone,
It has been about three years since I've posted on this page and I thought now was a good time to give a final update of sorts. When my dad was diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma it was an immensely difficult time for my family and all the people my father had interacted with over the years. However, as a child I was not taught to sit idly by and simply accept reality as presented, but to proactively do whatever I can to make a change for the better. I knew I didn't have the power to directly change the state of my father's illness, but I wanted to do something that would effect more lives than just my family's anyway.
Many people assumed a 16-yr-old could not possibly put in the amount of work needed to pull off a large scale philanthropic event, but I knew they must not have ever felt the sense of determination and passion for a cause that I did. With the help and support of many people (Nina Mordwinkin Strelecc, Robin Billings, Jeff Lang, Heidi Ondek, the local LLS chapter, and many many more) we were able to pull off two successful races with a combined 500+ participants and $23,000 donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Today marks five years since my father was given a miracle in the form of a stem cell transplant. I know our family counts every day my dad spends in remission as a blessing. We know that no family should ever have to go through something like that and I hope and pray that more advancements in all areas of cancer research are found daily.
I continue to receive updates a few times a year on where the donation money has gone and what it has accomplished. The results are looking better and better! A few years later and it seems as if a cure is within reach. Below you can read more about some clinical trials and advancements in the area of MCL research if you're interested.
Looking back at this experience, I've been able to identify a few important lessons I learned. Instead of doing nothing while waiting for change to happen or for things to improve, everyone has the ability to go out and help it along. Also, don't take anything in your life for granted, even the negatives. Be thankful for the positives in your life and accept the negatives as lessons to learn from and challenges to overcome. Most importantly, hold your family as close as you can.
Thank you for all of your support and the difference you helped make!
-Josh
A better understanding of the biology of mantle cell lymphoma and improved treatments in the past 2 decades make a cure for this disease a definite possibility, say leaders in the field.
