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Today is Giving Tuesday, and I can’t help but reflect on why we do the work we do. Sometimes, life feels more manageable when we write it all down—black and white often brings clarity.
Have you ever had that one friend who believed in you more than you believed in yourself? The one who would take time off in the middle of their workday to help you run a focus group for class, or who made every hangout unforgettable? Maybe you both lost at fantasy football and had to endure the world’s most disgusting consolation shot together.
That was my friend, Shawn Saguid.
I met Shawn on Halloween in 2010, and from that moment, he became a central part of my life. He and Pat, his fraternity brother in Delta Upsilon, introduced me to the sisters of Beta Chi, who became like family. Shawn always had a way of lifting my spirits and keeping my mindset positive.
Shawn wasn’t just an incredible friend; he was a campus minister at Iona College (now University), always helping those in need. But on a cold day in 2016, everything changed. We learned that Shawn had been diagnosed with Sarcoma—a rare and aggressive cancer. At the time, fewer than 130 cases existed in the world. Shawn’s battle was even more complicated by blood clots in his heart and lungs, leaving him unable to use his left lung. The cancer advanced rapidly, hiding and spreading through his blood cells.
From February 29, 2016, until his passing on July 27, 2017, Shawn fought with unimaginable strength. Even while enduring treatments, he dedicated himself to advocacy. He educated his loved ones, shared his journey, and raised awareness about Sarcoma.
After his passing, the Sarcoma Foundation of America, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, established a memorial fund in Shawn’s name. They’ve been leaders in advocating for Sarcoma research, having awarded more than 200 grants across 165 institutions and involving over 150 researchers. Sarcoma accounts for 15% of childhood cancers, and their work is critical in finding new treatments and hope for patients.
Inspired by Shawn’s resilience and advocacy, I’ve committed myself to raising awareness and funds for this cause. Together, we’ve built the Giveback for Shawn concert series to honor his memory and support Sarcoma research. My goal is to raise $10,000 for the Sarcoma Foundation—and we’re just $5,000 away.
Source : Sarcoma Foundation of America
Every year, I’ve also traveled to photograph Sarcoma races in different states, celebrating survivors and the families of those who fought bravely. It’s inspiring to meet people like Kelly, who shared her story during our Giveback episode in October. Kelly has been battling Sarcoma for nine years, and her positivity is a testament to the strength Shawn inspired in all of us.
As the Giveback approaches, my ask is simple: let Shawn’s story and spirit inspire you to take action. Visit our GoFundMe page and donate. Every dollar raised helps the Sarcoma Foundation fund life-saving research, bringing us closer to a world where no one has to face Sarcoma—or any cancer—again.
Shawn’s legacy is one of love, positivity, and resilience. Let’s keep it alive.
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