Jonathan “JD” Daige has taken on the fight against cancer with the same dedication, determination and heart that he brought to two tours in Iraq and that he brings every day to his duties as a Worcester police officer.
JD, who has beaten testicular cancer twice, the second time with metastases to his lungs and brain, has raised thousands of dollars competing in charity events, even while undergoing treatments, including 10 procedures in just three years.
To mark one-year cancer free, JD competed in the Pan-Mass Challenge, raising more than $9,500 as part of the police team he formed, Team Thin Blue Ride. He has participated in the Crusaders Against Cancer 5K, held on the College of the Holy Cross campus, and Skating for Hope, an annual 24-hour skating and hockey fundraiser that benefits cancer patients undergoing treatment with costs for housing, transportation and daily needs. JD also speaks at schools and businesses to inform the public about the importance of early detection. JD hopes to one day ride his bicycle across the country to raise awareness for this cause.
“The world needs more guys like JD,” says nominator Dave McGrath. “JD has dedicated his life to serving his country and city, and, as a volunteer, he is determined to fight back against cancer. JD has shown that just participating in one cancer-fighting event or getting involved with one organization isn’t enough.
“Even though cancer took parts of both of his lungs, JD still completes in demanding athletic events. JD is a cancer-fighting hero, community hero and American hero.”
