In 2008 John Challis died at the age of eighteen, losing a battle against liver cancer, but his inspirational story and message had an incredible effect on people from all walks of life. “I Was Picked, The John Challis Story” looks at John’s life growing up with his family and how being stricken with cancer brought out his courage and wisdom. Not wanting to sit by idly and feel sorry for himself, his ‘Courage + Believe = Life’ mantra is a message that continues to live on.
In 2008 John Challis died at the age of eighteen, losing a battle against liver cancer, but his inspirational story and message had an incredible effect on people from all walks of life. "I Was Picked, The John Challis Story" looks at John's life growing up with his family and how being stricken with cancer brought out his courage and wisdom. Not wanting to sit by idly and feel sorry for himself, his 'Courage + Believe = Life' mantra is a message that continues to live on.
“I had the opportunity to meet John during his courageous battle with
cancer. His positive attitude and determination were an inspiration for
all of us, and his legacy lives on for young athletes in the Pittsburgh
area and across the country.”
– Mario Lemieux, Pittsburgh Penguins
“John Challis touched more people than most meet in a lifetime. His
courage and attitude forever changed me and my family, and
I know his perspective will inspire all who read this book.”
– T. Clark Gamblin, MD, MS
Chief of Surgical Oncology
Stuart D. Wilson Chair in Surgical Oncology
Clinical and Research Liver Cancer Program Leader
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
“I’ve met many courageous and inspiring people in my 37 years of
sportswriting. John Challis is at the top of the list. His story is one of
faith and strength, all with a smile, and we can all learn from it.”
– Kevin Kernan, New York Post