Life is Not a Spectator Sport
On my birthday in 2015, I was diagnosed with cancer. The diagnosis significantly affected me, especially after having lost my best friend to prostate cancer the previous year. Initially, I felt discouraged about addressing the disease. However, support from friends and family influenced my decision to pursue treatment and set goals, including "walking my daughter down the aisle." After achieving this milestone, I encountered another major health concern.
Seven months after completing the IRONMAN® World Championship, I visited a cardiologist due to chest pain. He dismissed my concerns. I obtained a second opinion and was diagnosed with severe coronary artery disease. As a result, two stents were placed, followed by three more. During this process, I experienced a myocardial infarction in surgery. This experience highlights the importance of seeking additional medical opinions and maintaining proactive health practices. In 2021, I was diagnosed with severe carotid artery stenosis, which led to a carotid endarterectomy.
More recently, I received a diagnosis of arrhythmia. With guidance from a cardiologist, I trained for and completed the IRONMAN® 70.3 Hawaii triathlon. Further details are available in my June blog: INSPIRATIONAL INSIGHTS ON HEALTH CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE https://tomhulsey.com/2025/06/09/inspirational-insights-on-health-challenges-and-resilience/
These experiences have given me a wonderful perspective on life. As both a patient and advocate, I share my personal health journey to contribute to positive changes in healthcare. My aim is to encourage individuals to be proactive about their own health by sharing practical examples and insights based on lived experience.
Philanthropic Recognition
Lauren Beam Philanthropy Award at the New York University School of Professional Studies and the Tisch Institute for Global Sport for his “dedication and contributions toward philanthropic efforts that resulted in significant, positive effects on the world of sports and beyond.”
“Finishing 9 IRONMANs® is an inspiration in itself. Finishing 2 more after battling and surviving cancer is an achievement worthy of all the accolades one can get. An even greater achievement is dedicating one’s life to help others through philanthropy. Your work with the DOD’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, ZERO Prostate Cancer, and your winning mindset to inspire others are reasons for this honor.”
Success North Dallas Service Above Self Leadership Award for “lifetime visionary service.”
“Tom is a true inspiration who has overcome many obstacles (including heart disease) to achieve his goals and make a positive and significant impact on the world. He has dedicated his life to advocating for medical research, education, and awareness, and getting men to talk about this horrible disease.”