Principal Herman's Heroes

WARRIOR STATEMENT: 

This isn't a story about surrender. It's a declaration of war.

It's the hardest thing in the world to stare down, but when you choose to accept the fight, everything changes.

In March 2024, I was hit with the words no one is ready for: Stage Four Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma.

• Multiple tumors on my liver.
• Two large masses on my pancreas, one more on the tail.
• Five stents in my heart. A defibrillator since 2018.
• Now a Type 1 diabetic, learning on the move. Pumps, pods, sensors, and whatever else it takes to keep moving.

Surgery wasn't an option. I just had chemo until it failed five months ago. My numbers started to spike again. The outlook darkened. But warriors don't fold. They pivot.

I was given a second chance in a randomized clinical trial. Today, I'm on 200 mg of an RAS inhibitor, and I'm back to fighting and winning.

The numbers prove it:

• Before diagnosis: 245 lbs.
• Lowest point: 170 lbs.
• Today: 230 lbs and rising.

I returned to work in July 2024, leading as I've done for 35 years as a principal, an educator, and now, a survivor in progress. 

I work with some of the most motivating professionals in the curriculum and instruction department, including the assistant superintendent, director, multiple supervisors, teachers, and clerks, who inspire me to continue doing what I've always done: working to support the students and families of Jersey City. 

And it would be wrong if I didn't honor the incredible people who've stood shoulder to shoulder with me through every chapter of my career, the Superintendent's Leadership Cabinet, the teachers, administrators, custodians, security officers, clerks, support staff across every department, and the Board of Education itself. Their strength, loyalty, and commitment have supported me every step of the way. They are the unseen warriors who keep the mission alive, the backbone of every victory, and the reason leadership means service, not spotlight.

Let's be clear, this is not a story of pity. It's a mission. 

I want my life back. And I will fight until Pancreatic Cancer is history, as Brad Pitt stated in the movie, F1 then beat me, SWAN!.

Every dollar raised fuels front-line research, trials, and breakthroughs. Every contribution arms another warrior. We're raising $500,000 because bold goals demand bold action. You're not just funding science; you?re funding the survival of the financing.

Principal Herman's Heroes raised $26,961.39 in 2025. You should be damn proud of yourself.

A big thank you to the Shevelev family for saving my life.

I want to thank every doctor who has been part of my recovery, including my cardiologist, endocrinologist, and general practitioner, as well as the entire Columbia Hospital team. From the valets who recognize me as the guy with the big truck to the research staff and the adult fusion floor, you've all stood by me. You never gave up, even when the odds were stacked high. Thank you for your skill, your care, and for helping me keep moving forward.

Can you stand with me? I know for sure one woman and two beautiful young ladies know how to fight for me and with me. I Love You!

So come on and fight with me for all those who can't or are alone in this horrible battle for normalcy. 

Because we will end this.

We are not bystanders. We are not victims. We are Leaders. Warriors. Survivors.

Lead the way.