03/18/2024
Meet Anthony Rue, a 61 year old Stage IV pancreatic cancer survivor who was diagnosed in November of 2023. When Anthony shared a photo of him rocking the Chemo Cocktail shirt at his chemotherapy appointment, I asked if I could use it to promote the brand and share his story, which he agreed to.
In his professional life, Anthony worked in the coffee and cacao trade as a professional taster, helping farmers and buyers identify quality in their crops and working with our roaster partner to supply his espresso bar, Volta. Like many working professionals, Anthony has endured challenges since his cancer diagnosis. One of the chemotherapy drugs he receives is called Taxotere, and has a severe impact on his ability to taste following treatment. After 16 years in the business Anthony had to learn how to relinquish control and trust the team that he's assembled to keep his business moving forward while he makes his way through treatment.
In his personal life, Anthony is an avid cave diver and underwater photographer. Cave diving isn't for the faint of heart, and those experiences have taught him a discipline to keeping yourself alive: situational awareness, teamwork, discipline, a belief in systems and science. Everything he's learned about keeping alive 300’ deep and a mile back in a spring-fed cave has informed how he's approaching his cancer journey. Different team, different challenges, but the same goal: follow the thread back to the light, to live another day.
When asked what motivates him to fight the good fight, Anthony replied, "750,000 banked airline miles and the desire to see the world."
Thank you for sharing your story Anthony, and we wish you the best as you continue your cancer journey.
