10/27/2025
Three weeks after my throat cancer diagnosis, I took on my first Chattajack with my best friend, Eiffel—my Chaldean Catholic interpreter from our wild days in Iraq, driving non-standard vehicles in civilian clothes, just the two of us, partners in crime. Eiffel was more than a friend; he was a lifeline. When I got sick, he dropped everything, using his connections in Jacksonville’s medical community to get me seen fast. He took off work, drove me to appointments, and stood by my side through the fear and uncertainty.
We’d trained all summer for Chattajack, paddling our Bradley spec canoe, but as October neared, fatigue hit hard. When the diagnosis came, I knew one thing: there was no way I was missing that race. Eiffel and I paddled our hearts out, and man, did we have a blast. Crossing that finish line together? That was everything.
Eiffel drowned just days before I rang the bell, marking the end of radiation and chemo. It broke my heart, but his spirit never left me. Our second Chattajack, I was in a Matahina, stronger but still healing, carrying him with me. This year, I chose the Bradley again—probably one of the only spec boats out there—to honor Eiffel. Every stroke felt like he was right there. We passed the spot where “Superman” bonked, where Eiffel swiped seat 4’s sandwich after it hit the deck, and those final three miles where he’d scream, “Let’s go, team!” as boats closed in behind us. I could almost hear him again or post-race we gathered on the dock, sharing Pastalaya in D-rails room laughing and remembering.
Our team isn’t the fastest, but I’d bet my paddle we’re the happiest. As 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” It’s not about winning; it’s about how you finish, with heart, with purpose, with love. Every year, we race for the mental health of our paddlers and alumni, building memories that heal us.
This year, something extraordinary happened. My brother-in-law, was camping at Hales Bar and during the race, went to connect to Wi-Fi and saw it—a network named “Eiffel.” That was God telling us Eiffel was with us, cheering us on. We were yelling “this is for Eiffel” while we were racing.
To our paddlers, spouses, supporters, donors, and so many more—thank you. Your love and support carry us through every mile. We race for Gods Glory, Eiffel, for each other, and for the joy of being alive. Above all, we thank God for allowing us to paddle in His name bringing us together to honor our brother and find strength in faith. We love you all. 💙 The 904 Now App ARE Tahiti Chattajack 31Nordic Blue Water Liquid Therapy Premier Physical Therapy St. Augustine This Evening
