Getting diagnosed with blood cancer is an absolute nightmare at any age, but at 29, with a young wife and building a career, facing cancer felt like my world got turned upside down.
For most of my life, I was on an upward trajectory. I was a former college athlete, building an exciting career in my family business. I had recently married my beautiful wife, and our lives were surrounded by great friends and family.
Around New Years 2021, I started to feel “off.” What I thought was a lingering cold progressed into rapid weight loss, and by June I was coughing up blood. A large mass was found in my chest, and on June 18, 2021, I was diagnosed with stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma (HL).
After 6 months of chemotherapy and a month of radiation, I was declared in remission. I’m blessed to say that I am still in remission nearly 4 years later. My life is back on track not only because of the love and support of my wife and family, but because I love my life and was determined to not let this set me back.
There are certainly moments after blood cancer that can be rough, but I sit here today grateful that I went through it. Going through cancer has strengthened my marriage, made other relationships more meaningful, and has helped shape me into the man I am today. I have a renewed purpose to give back and serve others.
One of the best things I’ve done since having cancer is getting involved with Blood Cancer United. I have been involved with Light The Night (LTN), Team In Training (TNT), and am currently on the Board of Trustees for the North Florida Region. I’m most proud of my involvement with Patti Robinson Kaufmann First Connection® Program, that connects survivors with current patients and their families.
Recently, I started a line of men’s grooming products called GAME7. A line that recognizes men who rise to the occasion in all of life’s game 7 moments. I’m thrilled to be able to partner with Blood Cancer United where a portion of all sales goes towards the search for a cure. It’s truly an honor to be a part of such a great organization.
On a more personal note, my wife and I had our first child, a baby girl, at the end of January 2026.
Life after cancer rules!
Chris
stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)
