Cheryl Colleluori, a resident of Swedesboro, New Jersey, turned her heartbreak into action after losing her son, Nick, to lymphoma. Nick was just a college freshman when he learned he had aggressive cancer. A hesitant doctor’s visit led to a shocking diagnosis: large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Cheryl recalls the tough times that followed. With Nick undergoing intense treatment—chemotherapy, radiation, and stem-cell transplants—she decided to take a leave from her job to care for him. This period was not just emotionally draining but financially challenging as well. Many families in similar situations face out-of-pocket costs that can exceed $6,000 in the first year of treatment.
Nick wasn’t just focused on his fight; he wanted to help others, too. He noticed the gaps in support for families struggling with cancer. In 2005, from his hospital bed, he created the HEADstrong Foundation. His mission was clear: provide resources for families like his own.
After Nick passed away in 2006, Cheryl took the helm of HEADstrong, honoring her son’s dream. The foundation now offers financial, emotional, and housing support to families affected by cancer. One of its prominent initiatives is Nick’s House, which provides two fully-furnished homes for families traveling to Philadelphia and Boston for treatment. Since opening, Nick’s House has accommodated over 25,000 stays, helping nearly 40,000 patients in just 20 years.
Cancer care is not easy. Cheryl works tirelessly to reassure families that they are not alone. She understands their fear and anxiety. “I know what it’s like not to be able to fix it,” she says. HEADstrong’s services aim to relieve some of that burden.
With $39 million raised since the foundation started, Cheryl’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Last year, she was named a finalist in the Be Well Philly Health Hero Challenge, which honors those making a significant impact on health and wellness.
As HEADstrong continues to grow, Cheryl envisions expanding to five homes near major cancer treatment centers. Her mission is strong: to keep the legacy of her son alive while providing hope and support to families in their time of need.
Nick’s vision lives on through HEADstrong, reminding us all of the power of compassion and community in facing life’s toughest battles.
