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My name is Nick Fairweather. I am a cancer survivor and the Captain of Team Iron Man. This is the first year my family and I are participating in the 2023 Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk held on Sunday, October 1.
My cancer journey started only 8 months ago. In December '22, at the age of 28, I underwent emergency surgery for severe abdominal pain. With the removal of a very large tumor along with 2/3 of my colon, I was unfortunately left with an ileostomy. I was given the shocking news that I had Stage IIB Colon Cancer.
After many months of bloodwork, testing, scans, pathology, I was told my cancer had NOT spread. Initially, it was suggested I do 3 months of chemotherapy as a precautionary measure, however, my family and I decided to get a second opinion at Dana-Farber and I'm so glad we did! At DF, my oncologist and team did their own research on my specifics and with their knowledge and expertise, noted that there was no need for traditional chemo nor would I even benefit from it due to the particular makeup of my tumor. Immunotherapy would be the correct option if it were to return. With that said, we decided to have Dana-Farber oversee my journey. My oncologist will monitor me very closely for the next few years with constant bloodwork and scans. I also had severe anemia from my cancer therefore DF set me up with a few rounds of iron infusions which made me feel so much better(hence our name "Team Iron Man"). Thank you Dana-Farber!
In May ‘23, I was able to have my ileostomy reversal surgery done. I feel much more healthier and stronger now. Current bloodwork and CT scans have all come back negative. My family and I continue to remain positive and pray for a very long cancer-free life.
I truly believe and fully trust in Dana-Farber. We are walking not only for myself but also for many of my family members and friends who are fighting their fight and for those who have sadly lost their battle. Our team is making every step count toward the ultimate finish line: a world without cancer.
When you make a gift to our team, you’re directly supporting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s unique 50-50 balance between cutting-edge research and compassionate patient care. Your support allows Dana-Farber leaders to enhance programs and initiatives that serve pediatric and adult patients and their families.
Thank you for supporting our Jimmy Fund Walk fundraising efforts. Together, we can defy cancer!