Cancer invaded my life in the summer of 1996. At age nineteen I was told I had a growth in my rib cage. Upon removal and review, that growth became known as chondrosarcoma. A cancer diagnosis is tough for anyone, but as a young adult I had nowhere to turn. My family was supportive and loving. My friends were always there for me. My professors at Brown University were accommodating. My teammates were caring and helpful. But no one fully understood what I was going through.

I needed to talk with other people my age who knew what I had to deal with. I wanted to hear from those who had already beaten this disease. That resource was unavailable. In March of 1997 and again in June of 1997 I was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Again I found scarce resources for young adults affected by cancer.

My mom and I decided to start The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults to provide support, education, and resources to young adults, their families, and friends who are affected by cancer.

While money pours in to research, we must not forget to address the needs of those people who have to live with cancer daily. Until the elusive cure is found, we much provide for those young adults and others who struggle with issues of insurance, fertility, dating, being away from home, and dealing with health care professionals and family members.

I used to hear cancer and think death. Now I know better. People of all ages can beat cancer and live full normal lives with the right support and resources. I am committed to helping as many people as possible survive cancer and enjoy life with a renewed sense of vitality.