Warriors Who Inspire

Warriors Who Inspire

A statue of a knight in shining armor with a red cape stands on a stone platform accompanied by a cat. The setting is a scenic landscape with rolling hills, trees, and a castle in the background, under a bright sky.
A young child wearing medieval armor holding a helmet while facing a dog at sunset in a field.

As a cancer warrior, I’ve learned that our stories are more than personal battles - they’re lifelines. They connect us, inspire us, and remind us we’re never alone. Each journey through cancer is unique, yet together, we form a powerful community of survivors, fighters, and advocates who face adversity with courage, hope, and even humor.

These narratives shift perspectives, combat isolation, and fuel resilience, showing us we’re stronger than our diagnoses.

Below are three incredible individuals whose stories light the way for others. They could use your support - whether it’s a virtual hug or a donation to their care.

  • Smiling person with short blonde hair in a white shirt, posing outdoors with a blurred green background.

    Natalie Kwadrans

    Background: Former Team Canada athlete, now a terminal breast cancer warrior.

    Mission: Creator of “Mommy Has Cancer,” a comic strip series supporting young families facing terminal diagnoses.

    Impact: As a cancer research and patient advocate, Natalie fills a critical gap by providing resources for families navigating serious illnesses.

    Her Story: After her diagnosis, Natalie channeled her experience into art and advocacy, helping others feel seen and supported.

    Support Her: Donate via Linktree to fund her care and advocacy work.

  • A man in glasses smiling with a fluffy dog in a red jacket in a forest during autumn.

    John Dabell

    Background: A self-described “hopepunk” living with incurable head and neck cancer.

    Challenges: With only a third of his tongue, half his vocal cords, and a broken jaw, John defies the odds daily.

    Triumph: Doctors gave him two months to live, but John recently completed a 10-mile walk, proving resilience knows no limits.

    Impact: Through his blog, John spreads grit and positivity, inspiring others to keep fighting.

    Support Him: Visit his website to read his story or donate to his care.

  • Man in yellow blazer with bow tie, standing indoors

    Michael J Whelan

    Background: Emmy and Peabody Award-winning former executive at HBO and The Golf Channel.

    Diagnosis: Stage 4 head and neck cancer patient.

    Mission: A passionate advocate for cancer awareness, mental health, and animal rescue.

    Impact: Michael uses his platform to uplift others, sharing insights from his journey to inspire hope.

    Support Him: Follow and support Michael on X or contribute to his advocacy efforts.

Has a warrior touched your life?

Let us know!