No one survives life’s toughest challenges alone. Sometimes we have our family, friends and medical professionals by our side to help us. And sometimes, the most important thing we can do is learn from other stories of survival. When we meet people who have not only experienced something similar but actually came through it better and stronger, it provides hope and inspiration. We invite you to Share your Story of “Surviving & Thriving.” Your words could be just the thing someone needs to keep moving forward. Share the gift of hope.

Submitted by Ron Foster:

I’m a 72-year-old kidney cancer surviver. I had my left kidney removed in July 2008.

But that hasn’t stopped me from staying physically active.

Since my cancer diagnosis, I have won the New Jersey state High jump, Long Jump and several Eastern Regional Championships, which includes competitors from several states. I’m a member of the Master’s United States Athletic Track & Field and still competing in competition with athletes in my age bracket.

I’m also a musician. I write and I conduct R&B classic soul groups with a 40-piece orchestra.

I run my own Music Production and Art business producing local artists here in the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

I’m also very active in books and music for children, working at the child care center in my hometown of Paterson NJ.

Life has been an incredible journey for me. I’m doing all I can to live my life to the fullest and not hurt anyone along the way. I tell people all the time to look for the bright side no matter how hard it may seem!