In 2013, Tommy was diagnosed with Epithelioid sarcoma, a rare but serious form of cancer that affects only 1 of every 2.5 million people.
Its tumors start in the extremities such as fingers and toes, and the only successful treatment is amputation. Although Tommy is currently cancer-free, he lost a pinky finger to the disease.
During his struggle, Tommy received care from Imerman Angels - a volunteer organization providing free one-on-one support for cancer fighters, survivors, and their caregivers.
After recovery, Tommy became an Imerman Angel mentor himself, providing friendship and solidarity to other cancer patients.
“It can be a hard conversation to have and you don’t know why sometimes,” he states. “I’ve learned that it’s so easy to isolate yourself and not ask for help, and at the same time you’re putting yourself more at risk.”
Tommy is proud that his profile as The Real Elf not only allows him to help raise cancer awareness, but also much needed funds in direct support of Imerman Angels.
Through their unique matching process, Imerman Angels partners anyone seeking cancer support with a “Mentor Angel” – a cancer survivor or caregiver who is the same age, same gender, and most importantly who has faced the same type of cancer.
The service is absolutely free and helps anyone touched by any type of cancer, at any cancer stage level, at any age, living anywhere in the world.