Hi there, I’m James, and I’m 37-years-young. I never thought I’d have to write a post like this, let alone at my age, so thanks in advance for taking the time to read.

It started off as an innocent trip to the gastroenterologist for what I thought was a hemorrhoid. After hearing the symptoms I was having, the doctors recommended I get a colonoscopy. Well, turns out, it wasn’t a hemorrhoid, but there is a large mass in my colon. So here I am now—freshly diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer that’s decided to go on a vacation to my liver; it’s very popular this time of year, or so I’ve heard.

I’m a truck driver by trade, lucky enough to be home every night. My girl and I have been together for 12 years, and we have a 7-year-old son, also named James. They’re my entire world. I’m fighting the good fight for my family, my friends, but most importantly for my son. I pray that he never knows the pain of growing up without a father like I did.

Let me be real with you: This sucks. Hard.

I’m a dad, a son, a boyfriend, a friend—probably someone you’ve shared a meal with, a laugh, or just a good old time. I've always been a consistent pillar of strength for everyone around me—the kind of guy who shows up, figures it out, gets it done, and doesn’t ask for handouts. The guy that will give you his last $20, or the shirt off his back (cliché, I know, but true nonetheless). I’ve always been a hard worker, always the “I’ll figure it out” type, with zero clue, no backup, and reckless confidence. I guess you can say that kind of attitude has always worked out for me in the past, but this time I’m not so sure. Now, cancer has entered the chat, and I need all the help I can get. Any assists I can get at this time will help immensely.

Starting July 14, I’ll be doing chemo from home through a port and pump. And since cancer doesn’t exactly come with PTO, I’m out of work for the time being, possibly 6-12 months depending on how treatment goes. But the bills? Oh, they’re still on the clock, and working overtime.

So here I am, asking for help—which, believe me, is not my strong suit. Life threw a wrench in the works, and while I’m more than ready to swing back, I need a little backup.

If you can donate, you’ll be helping me:

Cover daily living expenses

Pay off a ‘small’ but growing mountain of medical bills

Keep my son’s world stable during a time when everything else feels upside-down

And if you can’t donate? That’s cool too. I totally understand times are hard for all of us out there. Sharing this with others is just as powerful. You never know who might feel moved to help a random guy fighting the fight of his life.

I’m not going down quietly. I plan on beating this thing—with strength, grit, laughter, maybe a little profanity, and all the love I’ve got.

Thank you for being here, for showing up for me, and for helping make sure cancer doesn’t get the last word.

Respectfully,

-JW