In 2015 I was diagnosed with melanoma.  It was pretty rough for a bit.  We had indescribable support from family, friends, co-workers, caregivers, insurance (crazy, I know), and complete strangers.  It was an amazing blessing.  My co-workers organized a 5k to show their support.  They put together an amazing video of the event with messages of support that still puts a (non-cancerous) lump in my throat.

Since then we’ve made small donations to the University of Colorado’s Cancer Center for melanoma-related research.  On the 10th anniversary it seems appropriate to do more.  This is where you come in.  I’m running the Miles for Melanoma 5k on June 14 and would be honored if you made a $5 donation - because you know - 5k.  Of course you can donate whatever you want to - $1.87, $5, or your co-worker’s next paycheck.  If you share this on your social media it could help raise even more.  If donating isn’t an option, maybe you could make an appointment for a skin check.

My health has been great since I recovered, but I know that’s not always the case.  I’m acquainted with someone who was diagnosed around the same time I was.  He’s in the same demographic I am (middle-class, middle-age, white guy who thinks he’s funny).  He was also treated with immunotherapy and regained his health.  About nine months ago he got sick again and has been fighting for his life.  There are brilliant, talented, and dedicated researchers out there trying to find answers.  My biggest fear isn’t getting sick again, it’s forgetting the lessons I learned while I was sick.  One of those lessons was to be less busy so I can do things that really matter.  This feels like it matters.  We’d be incredibly grateful if you chipped in.

If you share this on your social media it could help raise even more.

Ginet’s version of the story:  https://fightbackzach.wordpress.com/2018/02/13/backstory/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKvM59leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETB2RURueEt4dE5jQlBJUEhmAR7X47F82UAucUe-150yolCi7iq5AOZtVAXMO1Ke2PmukCezv_sRfEFSLuZB_Q_aem_xJNtg3AZotEADWAEVpr3_g

UC Health’s version:

https://www.uchealth.org/today/once-facing-just-10-days-to-live-air-force-veteran-is-back-on-his-bike/

BYU’s version:

https://alumni.byu.edu/test-section/not-done-learning