Each and every day, in your life and in others, we are fighting a battle. That battle may be choosing what type of coffee to drink in the morning, how you're going to pay the electric bill, what to do about a situation at work, or how to fight one of the most aggressive cancers known to mankind. Each battle presents a unique opportunity - how do YOU respond and react?

Our best friend, Nick Cappillo, has been battling osteosarcoma since 2016. Osteosarcoma is a very rare cancer of the bone typically beginning in childhood/teenage years with less than 1,000 cases per year in the United States. It is a fast-growing and slow-healing cancer, and strong chemotherapy/radiation and surgeries have to be used to even begin fighting the cancer. In Nick's case, he has had dozens of chemotherapy treatments, multiple radiation treatments, and well over a dozen surgeries including a titanium humerus replacement and later a full arm amputation, multiple lung and soft tissue surgeries, and now faces his next battle with a knee surgery including a full knee replacement and partial femur replacement due to the spread of this osteosarcoma into his leg and knee bones, kidney, and his vena cava vein that connects the kidneys and the heart.

Nick prefers those around him to have hope, not to feel sorry. He prefers those around him to pick up their sword and battle alongside him. Though there is not much we can do to help the doctors and medical professionals with this physically, we can help Nick mentally and spiritually as he prepares to go into yet another surgery and round of treatment in the coming months.

Nick has never let his situation deter him from living life to the fullest, and we certainly won't let that change now. Nick has had a bucket list since this began and has also grown much in his faith, alongside our close group of friends. Nick loves to travel, experience new things, and see what life truly has to offer. We know that he will need immense support from all of us in the coming months and as his best friends since childhood, we would like to surprise him with a much-needed trip to see the Yellowstone National Forest and all its beauty as he begins to face this battle again.

Though it is uncomfortable to ask, we realize that if we don't ask for support on this cause, what cause is truly more worthy in this moment? If there is anything that you are able to contribute to support us in our effort to surprise Nick and give him a break from the craziness of his day-to-day life, we would greatly appreciate you and your generosity.

We will share periodic pictures and updates of this trip, and any remaining funds will be donated to an osteosarcoma charity of Nick's choosing.

We know that Nick will get through this with his strength, the support of all of us, and through the hand of God. For Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand." And Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

#StrongForNick #NickStrong