As the founder of SKI & Me, my journey is deeply personal. It is shaped by the loss of a loved one to multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that disproportionately affects Black men. Through this painful experience, I came to understand the critical gaps in health education, awareness, and support within the Black community, particularly when it comes to rare cancers like multiple myeloma. This reality inspired me to create SKI & Me, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, providing education, and ensuring no one has to face this cancer alone.

When my loved one was diagnosed, I saw firsthand the challenges that come with navigating the complexities of cancer—especially when you lack clear information, timely screenings, or a strong support network. Despite the many resources available, there are still too many barriers preventing Black men from receiving early diagnoses and adequate care. I realized that if the information, resources, and emotional support I needed had been more accessible, my family’s experience might have been different. That’s when I knew I had to step up and do something to change this for others.

SKI & Me was born out of a commitment to bridge these gaps and provide the tools that can save lives. Our mission is to raise awareness about multiple myeloma and other cancers within the Black community, focusing on improving health outcomes for men who are often underserved in health education and screenings. By partnering with healthcare providers, cancer centers, and community organizations, SKI & Me is working to make essential resources—like early cancer screenings, financial support, and emotional guidance—more accessible to those who need it most.

My goal is to empower individuals and families facing cancer with the knowledge, support, and resources that were so desperately needed in my own experience. I believe that no one should have to walk the cancer journey alone, especially when facing such a rare and challenging diagnosis. Through SKI & Me, we are building a community of education, advocacy, and support—a network where individuals can lean on each other, share resources, and find hope.

In the face of loss and struggle, SKI & Me is my promise to make the journey easier for others and ensure that no one has to fight multiple myeloma—or any cancer—without the support they deserve. It’s more than just an organization; it’s a mission born from love, loss, and a relentless drive to make a difference.