Adapting to his new diabetic lifestyle, Russ learned to manage his condition with an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), a challenging adjustment alongside cancer treatment. After his initial melanoma treatment proved ineffective, doctors performed invasive surgery to remove lymph nodes in his upper groin. Post-surgery, his condition stabilized, allowing him to resume normal activities.

However, Russ’s reprieve proved all too brief. He faced new challenges when cancer was discovered in his lungs and brain. Quickly, his medical team initiated another round of immunotherapy and radiation for his brain tumor. Regardless of the fatigue and side effects he experienced, Russ persevered through treatments, which concurrently included multiple hospitalizations for adrenal gland failure and other complications.

Through experience with stage 4 melanoma, Russ has remained driven by his faith and family. As a family man, he finds strength in his relationships. He focused on spreading positivity and encouragement, speaking at cancer conferences, and actively engaging with his community through social media and live streams. His mission to inspire involves reminding others to maintain a positive perspective, believing that attitude influences physical health and outlook on life.

Watch Russ’s story to learn from him on:

• How he turned his cancer diagnosis into a mission of hope and inspiration.
• How his unwavering faith and positivity helped him face his emotional and physical battles.
• The innovative treatments that shaped his path.
• His adaptation to the challenges of diabetes amidst his ongoing cancer experience.
• How his community and faith have grounded him and helped him advance his mission to inform and inspire.