In October of 2014, 22 strangers embarked on a journey up the California coast to raise funds and awareness for the young adult cancer fight.  At the end of our 7 day journey, strangers became family.

In January of this year, we lost a family member, Brian Petras to this horrible disease.  Brian was only 30 when his story ended too soon. In 2009, while on active duty in the Air Force, Brian was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma and was forced to have his leg amputated below his knee.  Eight months after the amputation, Brian ran a mile and a half in 13 minutes to pass the Air Force fitness test and proved he was capable of staying in the military.  In 2012, during a routine checkup, 4 tumors were found on Brian's lungs.  Just 15 weeks after having major lung surgery, Brian completed the Boston marathon and finished 10 minutes before the bombs went off.  A year or so later, three more tumors showed up on Brian's lungs.  During his 5 year battle with cancer, Brian was always upbeat and optimistic.  He lived for each day and made a huge impact on all of us.  

To honor Brian's memory, we are raising funds to support the new Ulman Cancer Fund House in Baltimore, MD.  The UCF House will be a free “home away from home” for young adult cancer patients and their caregivers visiting Baltimore for treatment. This special project will create a community that fosters peer and social support, decreases financial burdens, and encourages hope and healing.

Thank you for supporting the Ulman Cancer Fund and helping us ensure that no young adult faces cancer alone!