James

James

Meet James, a spirited 24-year-old who has faced his battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma with unwavering strength and positivity. As a lifelong Yankees fan, James wanted to see his favorite team play at Yankee Stadium. So, to honor his courage and determination, Fightstrong Foundation is thrilled to take him to the Subway Series to watch the Yankees face off against the Mets. It’s a small way to celebrate a remarkable individual who inspires everyone he meets.

When we sat down with James to learn more about his story, his resilience and faith shone through every word. “My name is James Martinez, and I’m a 24-year-old man with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. I was diagnosed on December 24, 2024, through a tumor biopsy,” James shared. While the date might have brought unexpected news, it also marked the beginning of his fight—a journey he’s tackled head-on, even through the highs and lows of treatment. “It’s been a rollercoaster,” he admitted.

For James, one of the toughest parts of his journey has been returning to his daily activities. A self-proclaimed fitness enthusiast, James has always found joy in staying active, whether it’s weightlifting or playing soccer. Being sidelined from these passions hasn’t been easy, but his indomitable spirit has carried him through. “I always keep God close to me. In hard times, I never lose faith in Him because I know He has better plans for me,” James said with quiet determination.

When asked about his greatest source of strength, James immediately pointed to his family and friends. “They’ve been an amazing support system throughout this whole journey,” he shared. It’s this unwavering network of love and encouragement that helps James stay positive and motivated, even on the toughest days.

As James looks to the future, his hopes and dreams center on inspiring others facing similar battles. “I want to remind people that they aren’t alone and to never give up,” he said. It’s a powerful message rooted in his own experiences, and one he’s eager to share with the Fightstrong community and beyond. For James, brighter days are always ahead—as long as you keep fighting.

James’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of community. “Although it may seem like your world is falling apart, there are much brighter days ahead,” he said. As we gear up for his unforgettable Yankees experience, we couldn’t be prouder to stand alongside James in his fight and cheer him on every step of the way.

James, we will continue to pray for you and be by your side every step of the way. We cannot wait to see you come through this stronger than ever. We love you!