How did your team get involved with the MMRF?
My brother Ophire was 35 years old when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in September 2008. He was in contact with Kathy Giusti and found out about the 2016 MMRF Walk/Run 5K in Boca Raton. He fought long and hard for eleven years, flying back and forth to NY for treatment. He endured endless rounds of chemo, radiation, three stem cell transplants, six clinical trials, eight different drugs, and emergency spinal cord compression surgery.
Why did your team choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?
Ophire decided to become a “patient activist” to help advance the development of new drugs brought to market. He created No Fear Warrior to inspire hope and demonstrate the resilience of those who are alive and fighting MM. A large group of friends and family came out year after year to run and walk alongside him while he fought for his life. Ophire passed away surrounded by the love from his family and friends in January 2020 at 46 years old. Ophire didn’t die from myeloma; he died battling against myeloma. No Fear Warrior has continued to fundraise to keep his memory alive.
The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you and your team?
It is an honor for Ophire/No Fear Warrior to be recognized with this award. Receiving this award means that while Ophire is not with us, his spirit and memory lives on. We hope to carry the torch of inspiration and will continue to fight for a cure in our lifetime!
How has your team found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.
God gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors. Ophire was the most courageous, brave, man that I knew – he was a warrior that never gave up. He was an inspiration and touched so many lives with his positive attitude and zest for life. He had a 1000-watt smile that could light up a room. He was a respected leader in his profession and also had the ability to be your friend, which is very hard to do. In all my life, I’ve never heard anyone speak badly about Ophire. Everyone who knew him loved him.
Does your team have a favorite mantra, quote, lyric that gives you strength?
Ophire’s signature in his email was initially “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference” and later “Life is good.” His Facebook cover had the quote “Never, never, never give up” by Winston Churchill.
Anything to Add?
We’re looking forward to meeting our family in Tampa this November to walk in Ophire’s memory and support the MMRF!
The MMRF is delighted to recognize Team No Fear Warrior In honor of Ophire Jericho as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Tampa Walk/Run. Donate to their team today to accelerate a cure!
This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.
