JOIN MY FIGHT TO TAP OUT CANCER

Our dear friend Todd Tanaka—a true pillar of our jiu-jitsu community—is facing one of the toughest battles of his life.

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Recently, Todd was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer called cholangiocarcinoma, found in the bile duct connected to his liver. The tumor has blocked his liver’s normal function, causing severe complications, including jaundice. After multiple procedures and biopsies, this diagnosis has brought an overwhelming and unexpected challenge.

Right now, Todd is incredibly weak and pouring all of his strength into fighting this illness. His wife, Lauren, is standing by his side, doing everything she can to support him while carrying the emotional weight that comes with such a life-changing diagnosis.

For decades, he has given so much of himself—as a coach, mentor, teammate, and friend. He’s helped shape lives on and off the mats, always leading with kindness, patience, and generosity. He has shown up for so many of us without hesitation.

Now it’s our turn to show up for him.

As Todd and Lauren navigate this fight, the financial burden of medical treatments, travel, time away from work, and daily living expenses continues to grow. The last thing they should have to carry right now is the stress of how to manage it all.

There will be multitude of ways that you can make a difference.  Over the next several months, we will keep you posted on the various fundraisers we have lined up.  They include a GoFundMe page, several jiu-jitsu seminars, food pick-up days, fundraiser nights, and t-shirt sales.

Any contribution—no matter how big or small—will go directly toward helping them through this incredibly difficult time. And if you’re unable to donate, you can still make a meaningful difference by keeping Todd and Lauren in your thoughts and prayers. The strength of this community and the positive energy we send truly matters.

Let’s come together for Todd the way he has always been there for us.

With gratitude and hope,​

Friends & Family of TODD