As you can see, I am more than just a disease, but yet it has changed the rest of my life. In January 2019, I noticed a string of bumps in my neck that sent me seeking medical attention. I was later diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma on March 14th. I endured 6 months of chemotherapy. I would sit in a chair for 5 hours every other Wednesday as 4 different chemo drugs were pumped into me, AVBD. The chemo took every bit of my strength from me. On off-weeks I would begin to feel better, but to only be knocked back down to the lowest of lows. My loving wife was there to get me through every treatment as encouragement and care. I usually slept through treatments, while she faithfully waited in the chair across from me doing her school work.

       I continued to attend classes, all 16 credit hours, at Purdue, while attending drill weekends as well. With encouragement from Joanna, I also joined the Purdue Riley Dance Marathon. I was the busiest at my weakest, but it kept me active and in high spirits. I not only completed spring semester, but also summer courses as well. I finally finished treatment on September 14th. I have had two scans since them, both coming back clean. I still have another 2-3 years of scans and check ups before I can become a true survivor, but I have the strength and support to accomplish anything.