Jake Way

My name is Jake Way. My wife Kylie and I have four amazing boys who are the heart of everything I do. They are my why, my motivation and my greatest blessing. Whether it’s cheering them on from the sidelines, helping with homework or just being together on a random Tuesday night, these moments are the ones I treasure most.

In 2014, I took a leap of faith and started a business in the plumbing and HVAC distribution industry. It hasn’t always been easy, but I have poured my heart into it – because I wanted to build something meaningful for my family and create a life where we could have choices, opportunities and security.

I have always been a goal setter and competitor at heart. Running and triathlons have been more than hobbies – they have been a way for me to challenge myself, form bonds with friends that are like brothers, prove that hard work and discipline can take you further than you ever imagined.

But in August of 2025, my world shifted. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer that had spread to my lymph nodes. In an instant, life looked very different. After a radical prostatectomy and lymph node removal in November, I started hormone therapy in February and will begin radiation in September of 2026.

Cancer has a way of humbling you. It's forced me to slow down, to really look at what matters, and to lean on my faith, my family and the incredible support system around me. Some days are harder than others. There are fears that creep in – especially the fear of not being here for my wife and kids, of missing big moments, of leaving them with more memories of me in a hospital than us on an adventure.

My greatest fear when all of this began was breaking their hearts. I needed my boys to know that no matter what, I am fighting with everything I have to be here for them – for every game, every school play, every milestone, and every day in between. I want them to always know how deeply they are loved.

This is our new normal, but I refuse to let it define our future. I am here. I am still fighting. And I am still dreaming – right alongside the people I love the most

Jake was nominated by Rion Smith.