At First Descents I have seen first hand just how devastating cancer is for a young adult and few people have been hit harder than Eric Galvez. I spent a week with him recently teaching him how to kayak and his story was one of the most moving I have ever heard. Eric, like so many young adults before their cancer, was living a great life. He was athletic, outgoing and giving back though his work as a physical therapist. That all changed when they found a large tumor in his brain. Suddenly, Eric found himself being treated by his coworkers and fighting to regain control of the life he had recently enjoyed.

What made it so moving was his outlook on life everyday since his diagnosis. His cancer hit with such force that it would have derailed anyone else but Eric continues to defy his cancer each day of his life and live well beyond it. It’s a lesson in strength that we can all benefit from.

I have said it so many times before. Sometimes, the biggest gift an athlete can offer is some inspiration. Eric does just that.