"Join Our Unique Initiative: Recognizing Random Acts of Kindness, Spreading Awareness, and Supporting a Cure"
About the With Purpose Foundation
Michael Fay: A Journey of Resilience and HopeI am Michael Fay, a 45-year-old husband and father, blessed to share my life with my best friend and our three beautiful and talented daughters. For nearly 15 years, I've worked at Johnson & Johnson, witnessing firsthand that the boundaries of what’s possible can always be pushed beyond what may have seemed unattainable.
A Life-Altering DiagnosisOn December 11th, 2023, my life took an unexpected turn. Following a routine annual physical, my nurse practitioner called me back to examine my neck. Her concern was palpable when she mentioned that my neck felt anatomically larger than it should. This led to an urgent ultrasound of my neck and axillae, and two hours later, I received a call that would forever change my world. I was instructed to undergo a needle biopsy and a full-body PET/CT scan.
Facing SLL/CLLA week of testing revealed that I had Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma/Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (SLL/CLL), a type of cancer affecting the lymph nodes and bloodstream. Typically diagnosed at ages 65-70, I was only 45. This news was a stark reality check. Further evaluations at Memorial Sloan Kettering, Weill-Cornell, and Catholic Health Systems confirmed my diagnosis: a progressive cancer currently without a cure. Although it can be managed through antibody therapy, it remains likely to return. Additionally, I have two mutated genes, making my cancer more aggressive and necessitating earlier treatment than usual for SLL/CLL patients.
Embracing a Positive OutlookI realized that my attitude would play a crucial role in coping with and overcoming this disease. Rather than succumbing to despair, I chose to channel my energy into something positive. I founded a charity focused on encouraging random acts of kindness (RAKs), while raising awareness and funds to advance research and treatment options, with the hope of one day finding a cure.
Join the Fight Against CancerI invite you to support this important cause. Your generosity and willingness to spread the word about our mission can help us continue to do good, initiate more RAKs, and contribute to advancing research. Together, we can fight this cancer and, hopefully, one day, find a cure. Please consider supporting and helping us today. Your kindness can make a significant difference in this journey of resilience and hope.