While on a work trip to New Orleans in February of 2025, Justin reached up to adjust his shirt collar during a conversation with coworkers when he noticed something unusual – a small bump just behind his clavicle. He’d also had a mild cough lingering for nearly three months, something easy to write off during a typical Wisconsin winter.
When he returned home, Justin visited Aurora Urgent Care - Franklin, where he was greeted by NP Deborah, who carefully evaluated his symptoms and ordered a chest X-ray. The results led to a sobering recommendation to head straight to the ER. Justin went to Aurora West Allis Medical Center, where a CT scan confirmed two large masses in his chest.
Thankfully, Justin didn’t have to navigate the next steps alone. His wife, Liz, a Heart Failure RN Specialty Care Manager with Aurora Health Care, helped guide him through what came next. Soon after, he was connected to Aurora St. Luke’s Vince Lombardi Cancer Center, where he met hematologist and oncologist Dr. Syed Haider.
Justin was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and began chemotherapy and immunotherapy, including the cutting-edge regimen Nivolumab+AVD, also referred to as N+AVD. This treatment includes immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy to enhance his immune response, bringing hope and a supportive path forward during difficult days.
From the very beginning, Justin felt reassured. “From day one, I knew that I was with the most elite team in the state,” he shares. “The level of attention and compassion that I received from this group, along with their in-depth knowledge on how to treat my Hodgkin lymphoma brought great relief to me and my family. Dr. Haider always made himself available when I needed support and had a remarkable way of communicating things in a way that I felt comfortable with.”
Throughout treatment, Justin found strength from not only his family but also his care team. “Deborah at urgent care trusted her instincts. She realized something wasn’t right, moved quickly and made the call to send me straight to the ER. That moment changed everything, and I’ll always be grateful that she both listened and acted. Kristyn at the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic answered every question my family and I had. She educated us on what to expect, set clear expectations, and gave us support with warmth and honesty. She was there for us every step of the way so that we never felt alone.”
He goes on to recognize the infusion and lab teams at St. Luke’s, for “bringing an upbeat attitude to my hardest days”, making him feel like “the most important person in the room.”
“I cannot forget to recognize NPs Lisa and Samantha, who worked relentlessly to make sure I was supported. They took extra time to make sure nothing was overlooked. Nurses Emma, Sydney and Irene made an unforgettable impact on my journey. Their professionalism and empathy guided me through my toughest moments.”
In October 2025, Justin received the news he and his family had been holding out hope for — a clear PET scan. Today, he’s back to work, rebuilding his routine with his family and appreciating life more deeply.
How you can help
Cancer programs and services at Aurora St. Luke’s are supported by philanthropy. To help patients like Justin, please consider making a gift today.