This year, it is about Chris. Chris is a friend for life. We met in Honolulu while attending high school. Curiosity over a shared last name led to a friendship that remains to this day. For years we raised hell together bombing around the island in his mustang and my variety of jalopies. I think the bonding characteristic that we shared was a strong moral compass and protector instinct. After school, we moved on to different locales as college and jobs came up. We were able to remain close through the years and distance as our lives grew more complicated. He served as best man for my wedding. He is my daughter's godfather. He may have named his son after me, which I still find shocking. Despite time and distance between us, we can still pick up a conversation like nothing else happened.

Earlier this year, Chris was diagnosed with Stage 4 Esophageal Cancer, but never smoked a day in his life. The diagnosis was a gut punch after he had successfully navigated some odd illnesses.

As a dedicated husband, father, son and friend, he fights on. Chris is quietly strong, and he will fight this. He will do it for the family he loves. He will do it for the friends he has. He will do it because all of us will kick his ass if he does not!