Meet Justin.
Justin’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and turning one of life’s most frightening moments into a mission to help others. What began as a medical emergency quickly became a life-changing diagnosis. After experiencing a micro bleed that required hospitalization and blood transfusions, Justin underwent a colonoscopy while still in the hospital. That procedure revealed devastating news—he had late stage IV metastatic colon cancer. Doctors discovered nodules in both his lungs and liver, along with a large tumor in his colon and another in his stomach. In order to begin fighting back, Justin underwent surgery to remove half of his colon. At the time of diagnosis, Justin admits the fear was overwhelming. In his own words, he truly believed he might not survive.
Yet even in the face of that fear, Justin made a decision about how he wanted to approach this battle.
Throughout his treatment journey, Justin focused on staying positive, remaining physically active, and learning how to ask for help when he needed it most. Leaning on his community of family and friends made all the difference, giving him the strength to keep moving forward through each step of the fight. Running has remained one of the activities that helps him feel like himself and stay grounded during the hardest days.
Today, Justin has reached an incredible milestone—he is now in remission. While the journey to get there was anything but easy, his fight and determination carried him through some of the darkest moments of his life.
What stands out most about Justin, though, is how he has chosen to use his experience to serve others. Rather than turning inward, he has become deeply involved in advocacy and support for people facing the same diagnosis. Justin volunteers with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, helping raise awareness, mentor others, and share the critical importance of early screening. His work in the community has become a powerful way to stay motivated while also ensuring that others feel less alone in their fight.
Justin’s commitment to the cause continues through his fundraising efforts. On March 26th, he will be hosting a fundraiser at Press 195 (1048 Old Country Rd, Plainview, NY) to support colorectal cancer awareness and resources for those battling the disease. Events like this are not only about raising funds—they are about bringing people together, sharing stories, and building a community that refuses to let anyone fight alone.
Justin first connected with Fightstrong through our dear friend and fellow fighter, Christie, who introduced him to our mission and the work we do. After learning more about Justin’s journey and the incredible impact he is having within the cancer community, we were honored to support him. Fightstrong Foundation was able to donate $1,000 in gift cards to Target and Walmart to help ease some of the everyday expenses that come with navigating treatment and recovery.
Justin’s strength goes far beyond his diagnosis. His willingness to speak openly, help others, and continue advocating for early detection is something that deserves to be recognized and celebrated.
As Justin shared with us:
“Stay positive. Support your mental health. Try to stay physically active. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help.”
Justin’s feat is no small one—and it is something to be incredibly proud of.
If you are interested in attending Justin’s fundraiser on March 26th at Press 195 in Plainview, NY, or if you would like to contribute to his efforts supporting the colorectal cancer community, please reach out to us and we will help connect you.