John's Journey

John Colesi; a loving husband, father, coach and friend lost his long battle with cancer on September 3, 2024.

Anyone's journey through cancer is a difficult one; a journey with an exceedingly rare form of cancer in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma even more so. John's particular cancer diagnosis gave very little hope. Its rarity meant that there was little research and data for doctors. It resulted in a journey filled with multiple different consultations, tests, medicines and many, many uneasy days.

John's journey didn't start at The James, but he was glad that it ended up there. His previous doctors had largely given up hope for this type of cancer, and it led to many uncomfortable conversations with those involved. He was nearly ready to abandon hope. Until he found new guidance with Doctor Bonomi and the oncology staff at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). The amount of unbelievable compassion, understanding, reassurance and benevolence conveyed by all members of The James' staff brought John a great deal of comfort during the most difficult time in his life. They gave John the grace of hope.

Sadly, John did lose his battle, but he would often speak fondly of his time spent at The James. Therefore, his surviving family has thus decided to set up this donation page in his honor. Contributions will go towards the Head and Neck Cancer Research Fund in the hopes that more progress can be made to ease the journey for those who may befall this rare form of cancer.