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. Please help by donating today.

Mission Goal Update

Our primary way of reaching our target audience, which is 18-34 year old adults, is through funded social media. Currently we are sharing our important message in the southeast. As we grow, we will share it nationally, with our primary goal of building awareness of this terrible disease and the importance of early detection.

Last Week's Results

Last week, our social media campaign reached 36,972 young adults and generated 526 website visits. Viewers forwarded the message to 34 individuals. This is extremely encouraging and as we continue to test and refine our message we feel certain we will educate and save lives.

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.

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

  • JM loved great merch! John Michael Pierce Foundation has been established to honor and continue John Michael's legacy as a fun loving, entrepreneurial and impactful person.

    JM Merch

    John Michael loved some merch. Shop now for old fashioned glasses, bracelets, hats and shirts. All net proceeds will be used to build awareness in young adults about the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer. 

    Buy Now 
  • To make a monetary donation to the John Michael Pierce Foundation, click below. All proceeds will be distributed to the three groups JM truly loved; the Reed Foundation, Highland's College and Alabama Entrepreneur Group.

    Donate

    To make a monetary donation to the John Michael Pierce Foundation, click below. Proceeds will be used to build awareness in young adults about the early signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer.

    Donate Now 
  • One of JM's favorite things is playing golf. Join us for the John Michael Pierce Foundation golf tournament. It has been established to honor and continue John Michael's legacy as a fun loving, entrepreneurial and impactful person.

    Golf 2023

    Don't miss the second JMP golf tournament on September 18, 2023. It'll be one like you’ve never experienced. There will be great music (of course!), refreshments, lunch, hole prizes, team awards and great swag bags.

    Sign Up 

  • Zoo Party 2023

    Make plans now to attend this epic party at the Birmingham Zoo on Sunday, September 17 from 7-11 pm. 

    John Michael loved any reason to bring those he loved together and since this is his birthday, well, it’s gonna be big. Don’t miss it!

    Buy Tickets 
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