Our Simple Mission

The mission of the John Michael Pierce Foundation is to build awareness in young adults about the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer. Young adult esophageal cancer is on the rise and since the symptoms don't seem significant, most people discover it at a late stage which limits treatment success.

Utilizing compelling social media, targeted advertising, college campus programs, public service announcements and special events geared toward young adults, we will communicate this critical message and encourage people to seek evaluation early on. If we save just one person, we will consider our efforts extremely successful.

New early-detection DNA test, EscoGuard, has the potential to save thousands of lives each year.

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John Michael Pierce, making memories! Contribute today to the John Michael Pierce Foundation Golf Tournament.

John Michael's Journey

In April 2021, John Michael was 24 years old and was having acid reflux and trouble swallowing. After a visit to a gastroenterologist, it was discovered that he had stage four esophageal cancer. During this time he never slowed down. He wanted to keep everything "business as usual." And he did just that. He didn't allow this disease to be the focus of his life. Because of his positive attitude and unending energy, at work or with his friends, we were all surprised when he joined our Heavenly Father five months later.

John Michael had the incredible ability to make people laugh and feel special. He genuinely cared for others and was truly invested in all the relationships he had throughout his life. During his 25 years spent here on earth, John Michael created a legacy that will live on forever. During his final months of life, he brought others closer to God, grew in his own faith and truly lived each and every day to the fullest. To know him was to love him and we're making it our mission to keep his spirit alive until we all meet again. Cheers to making memories, investing in others and falling in love with life day after day.

TissueCypher AI-driven testing by Castle Biosciences accurately predicts risk of progression to cancer.

Esophageal cancer can be prevented if detected early. 

New TissueCypher AI-driven testing by Castle Biosciences accurately predicts risk of progression to cancer.

Esophageal cancer has increased over 733% in the past four decades, making it one of the fastest growing and deadliest cancers in the United States.
Most people are unaware that persistent heartburn is a primary risk factor. About 20% of people in the U.S. have persistent acid reflux disease.
90% of Barrett's Esophagus, the precursor to Esophageal cancer, is undiagnosed.
TissueCypher is the first AI-driven precision medicine test to determine a patient’s individual risk of progression from Barrett's Esophagus to cancer.
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Heartburn Can Cause Cancer.

There is a dangerous connection between heartburn and cancer. Acid reflux can affect the lining of the esophagus, which in turn could lead to cancer.

Talk to your doctor about your concerns if:

  • You have more than occasional heartburn symptoms.
  • You have experienced heartburn in the past, but the symptoms have gone away.
  • You have any pain or difficulty swallowing.
  • You have an ongoing, unexplained cough.
  • You’ve been speaking with a hoarse voice over several weeks.
  • You have a long lasting, unexplained sore throat.
  • You cough or choke when you lie down.

Cancer caused by reflux disease is increasing at a faster rate than any other cancer in the U.S. Though considered a rare disease, Esophageal Cancer takes more American lives each year than melanoma skin cancer or cervical cancer.

Ways you can support the Foundation

  • Vulcan Party 2025

    John Michael loved any reason to bring those he loved together and this year's party will be no exception! Make plans now to attend, Saturday, August 9th at Vulcan Park!

    Buy Tickets 

  • Golf 2025

    Don't miss this year's JM golf tournament on Monday August 11th, 2025! There will be music (of course!), lunch, team awards, awesome prizes and a fun day with great friends.

    Sign Up 
  • John Michael Pierce Yeti Tumnler

    JM Merch

    Shop now for some JM logo swag. All net proceeds will be used to build awareness in young adults about the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer. 

    Buy Now 
  • One of JM's favorite places is the beach. John Michael Pierce Foundation has been established to honor and continue John Michael's legacy as a fun loving, entrepreneurial and impactful person.

    Donate

    To make a monetary donation to the Foundation, click below. All proceeds will be used to build awareness of the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer. 

    Donate Now 
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