David Wright

Story: "I was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in January 2008. Just a year-and-a-half before my oldest daughter, Kimberly, was diagnosed. I immediately began publicly writing about my experience with cancer. Following the publication of my initial op-ed, I was approached by the USC Center for Colon Cancer Research about becoming involved with them.

"Today, Kimberly and I have helped them partner with the State of South Carolina to form the SC Colon Cancer Prevention Network. Through our efforts, in 2013 the South Carolina General Assembly began appropriating $500,000 annually to the SCCCPN. Which has been matched 4-to-1 with other privately raised money to provide FIT tests, free colonoscopies, and patient navigation. All to uninsured, under-insured, and under-served, high-risk persons in South Carolina at free clinics throughout the state. We have gastroenterologists who volunteer their service to the program. Our combined efforts are making a life-saving difference in South Carolina.

Advice: "Make sure you have the best team of doctors, surgeons, oncologists, and caregivers. Find your passion through your challenge, and never give up!"