For Matt by James

The Hero Club stands for a lot of things, with taking meaningful action to aid in times of crisis being one of those. As we convene here in NYC, let us take a moment to remember Matt Ellefson and pull together in support of Matt's family in this time of mourning. Please do two things today: (1) generously donate whatever you can directly through this site and (2) complete the challenge described in the challenge section, then share it with your company, your family, congregants, facebook, twitter and other social accounts asking everyone to donate directly to this cause as well. We're here for you, Melissa and family.

Matt was first diagnosed in late 2009 and was given 8 months to live. Instead of treating it like an ending, Matt realized that his purpose on Earth wasn't about him, or getting things for himself, but about how he could contribute to the lives of people around him, and how he could make the world a better place to live.

He spent the last nine years serving other cancer patients through his non-profit, SURVIVEiT. He has helped thousands deal with the fear and confusion that a cancer diagnosis can bring.

Matt's has fought the good fight, and moved on. Many of us who have been touched by his selflessness wish to give something back to him. We have set up this fundraiser to help the defer the costs of the years of treatments that he underwent, and to support his family at this painful time.

The following was written by Matt's wife, Melissa:

This photo was taken in January of 2010. It was the weekend before we left for MD Anderson to start Matt's first treatment. We had dinner with six of our closest friends as a send off before Matt left for 3 months.

In the 9 years since this photo, Matt underwent 51 radiation treatments, 7 different chemo medications (with multiple rounds), 16 surgeries (and many more biopsies), and more than 60 days as an inpatient in the hospital. He worked his body in the gym to be as physically strong as possible. He ate a clean, anti-inflammatory diet to nourish his body. He changed the way he handles stress. And, most importantly, his faith was deepened. He created an organization with the sole purpose of helping others. He poured everything he had into SURVIVEiT, even when his own body was broken. And, most of the time, he didn't receive a paycheck.

Matt Ellefson inspired thousands of people, including me, to live fearlessly. He helped thousands of people navigate the challenges of cancer. He worked tirelessly to change the way people face cancer.

We were intentional about traveling the world. We learned long ago that we can't wait for tomorrow. So we made every moment count. Our Costa Rica trip was made possible by many of you. And all along, he was the best husband, father, stepfather, and Papa anyone could ever hope for.

Matt has been called to a higher purpose. He has been a good and faithful servant. There is nothing for him to prove. He is victorious in life- and in death.

We are at full peace. Our kids are at peace. There are no conversations left unsaid. What a gift that is.

Words of love and support and encouragement are welcome. There are a few who have made this experience about themselves. Saying things like, "you can't go, we need you." This is said by people that I don’t even know. People that Matt has probably never met in person. Matt's wife and kids don't say things like that. So I guess I don't think anyone else can. It's selfish.

So I ask that whatever is said to comfort Matt and our family is simply that: A comfort. No questions, no obligations of Matt. Simply love and comfort.

Matt's kicked some ass in this life of his. It should be celebrated.