Our Hero: TJ

Life can drastically change in the blink of an eye. As cliché as it sounds, no statement seems more true than when I think of TJ as he fights for his life. Twenty-six years old, life is just beginning. Primetime of his life; days are filled with studying for the MCAT, filling out paperwork to begin medical school at Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, traveling, apartment hunting with his girlfriend for their big move to Alabama, talking marriage and a life together. Life can drastically change in the blink of an eye, and should never have to be put on hold.

It is known that as human beings we can detect even the smallest differences in our bodies. Last fall, TJ began to experience changes in his body and health. He was experiencing chest pain, an abnormal cough, and had irregular swollen lymph nodes on his neck. Life for TJ was extremely busy as an adjunct faculty member at Towson University. Like any typical 26-year old, he ignored the symptoms and did as many do: “I just want to wait and see what happens”, thinking the symptoms could potentially dissipate on their own. As time passed, these symptoms only worsened, and TJ knew it was time to see a doctor. For a short period of time, TJ could breathe a sigh of relief, as the doctor at his university’s health clinic diagnosed him with a viral infection. Of course TJ followed the doctor’s orders and “got plenty of rest” to cure him. TJ was adept at recognizing that his symptoms were not clearing up but rather worsening. Time was not the only element that was progressing. There was no choice but to seek further medical options. The days were spent getting blood tests, biopsies and CAT scans. All TJ wanted was an answer, but this sure was not the answer TJ nor anyone wants to hear. Just shy of a year ago, TJ received the news that would change his life forever; a diagnosis of aggressive, Stage IV, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.


TJ’s days are now spent sitting through doctor’s appointments, chemotherapy, blood testing, CAT scans, and flooding thoughts of “what will happen to me next”. His time is dedicated to fighting for his life. A guy training to be a doctor has now become his own doctor, and not by choice.

TJ is anything but an ordinary individual. He is intelligent, ambitious, courageous, patient, and a good person right down to the core of his being. Although TJ’s diagnosis may have “put his life on hold” from starting medical school or his big move to Alabama, TJ has not stopped living. He loves deeply with an open heart, speaks kindly and learns abundantly. Despite this challenging journey, he lives his life with a smile on his face and a strong step in his glide. He approaches a devastating event, and manages to look at the glass half full. “I will be able to empathize with my patients, provide them with quality life treatment, and encourage them to fight for their lives.” TJ is the essence of a warrior, fighting with dignity and courage!

Please donate to help TJ pay for his medical bills.