It’s been almost 15 years since Ian was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 16, and he’s made sure to conquer everything he can in that extra time. In high school, his world revolved around football, friends, and the future – until one hit during a game left him with pain in his leg. What he thought was a minor injury soon revealed something far more serious: Ian was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer.
If it wasn’t for research from the NIH, I might have lost my leg or even my life. Cancer research means a lot to me.
Today, at 31, Ian is no longer on the football field but on the front lines of cancer advocacy, using his journey to make a difference for others. What began as a diagnosis that made time stand still has since shaped his life in ways he never imagined, leading him to Capitol Hill and beyond, fighting for those whose lives have been upended by cancer.
After his treatment, Ian’s growing passion for biology and science sparked a desire to make an impact bigger than himself. He pursued two degrees in biology and began working in cancer research. His strides to assist cancer patients through research naturally complement his cancer advocacy work. Over the past seven years, Ian has combined his hands-on experience in the lab with his efforts to drive policy changes, giving him a unique perspective in legislative meetings.
Though research often moves slowly, Ian knows that progress is possible when the cancer community works together – researchers, advocates, donors, and policymakers. His efforts in both research and advocacy are dedicated to moving the needle forward.
Ian utilizes the time he has been given to not only make a difference in research and advocacy but also to take advantage of the opportunity to never stop exploring, summiting more than 141 peaks. Hiking provides a way to reflect on the challenges he has overcome while continuing to push himself. Each climb represents resilience, a reminder of how far he’s come since his cancer diagnosis, and a symbol of his ongoing commitment to support others facing the same battle.
Whether it’s fundraising through Relay For Life, conducting research, or advocating in Congress, Ian remains dedicated to ensuring that cancer patients and survivors have a voice. His journey from a high school athlete to a cancer researcher and advocate serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that even the most unexpected challenges can lead to extraordinary opportunities to make a lasting impact.
Ian’s time as a researcher made his work with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) more powerful. He’s lobbied lawmakers for critical funding and advocated for policies that support cancer patients and survivors, including the STAR Act, which focuses on childhood cancer research, survivorship, and access to care. His advocacy isn’t just a personal mission – it’s professional too, as he understands the complexities of cancer research and how crucial it is to secure funding for scientific advancements.