Still in the Fight: Showing Up as a Dad While Undergoing Cancer Treatment

ByJames Hannum

Most people wait until they’ve made it through the hard part before they start telling their story. I don’t have that luxury, and honestly, I don’t want it.

The truth is—I’m still in it. I’m still serving in the military. Still raising my son. Still going through cancer treatment. Still figuring it all out.

But here’s what I’ve learned: You don’t need to be healed to be helpful. You don’t need to have it all together to own your story. And you definitely don’t need to be perfect to be a present, committed parent.

This Isn’t a Recovery Blog—It’s a Real-Time Journal

This blog isn’t about what happens after everything gets better. It’s about what it means to keep moving forward when you’re tired, scared, or unsure of what’s next. It’s about the days when showing up for my kid is all I’ve got in the tank—and realizing that’s enough.

Every post on here is part therapy, part reminder, and part survival guide for anyone going through something hard—whether you’re a fellow single dad, a veteran, a parent in treatment, or just a human trying to stay grounded.

What I Want This Blog to Be

  • A space where you see the real side of co-parenting—especially as a man navigating emotional weight
  • A place where military structure meets the chaos of everyday civilian life
  • A reminder that healing isn’t linear, and you don’t have to wait until the end to begin something meaningful

What You Can Expect Here

  • My routines while going through treatment and raising my son
  • Budget-friendly meals that work even when you’re exhausted
  • Workouts that respect my surgical limitations
  • Mental health tools that help me stay present
  • Honest thoughts on co-parenting, recovery, and everything in between

Final Thought: Start Where You Are

You don’t need to wait until life feels “ready” to start something real. This blog isn’t polished. Neither is my life. But it’s mine—and I’m showing up for it.

If you’re still in the fight too, I hope this space helps you feel seen.

Let’s keep going. Together.