A Waco veteran on a mission to help a dear friend battling cancer.
Nathan Wilkins, a Baylor University student who served in the U.S. Navy for four years, is working to raise money for Paul Hester.
At just 28 years old, Hester was diagnosed with cancer. He's described as courageous, outgoing and full of life.
"Paul was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. It kind of puts life in perspective. It's short and the time we have on earth is not guaranteed," Wilkins said.
To raise money, Wilkins is taking part in Ironman 70.3 Waco on Oct. 28.
"Cancer doesn't discriminate. Any room he goes into, he brings the whole room to life. He's a loving husband, awesome guy," Wilkins said. "The challenges that you face battling cancer is far greater than a 70.3 triathlon, so this is a breeze compared to the struggle he's facing."
Chad Baker is with Bicycle World, the title sponsor of this year's Ironman.
"Any support that they can get, whether it be financial, mental, physical or whatever is very important for everyone," Baker said.
"I know it takes the burden off of them a little bit and makes the whole process a little bit easier," Wilkins said.
Wilkins wants his friend to know, he's not alone in this fight.
Hester and his wife now live in Houston but used to live in Waco. If you would like to help, Wilkins set up a GoFundMe page.
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