Wisdom Woven In: Sean Wachter. Fighter. Survivor. Still Standing!

Our Wisdom Woven In series uplifts voices of those who’ve faced cancer and chronic illness with resilience and reflection. In recognition of Melanoma Awareness Month, we're sharing a story that burns a little hotter—because not everyone flows. Some fight. And Sean Wachter fights with everything he’s got.

I first met Sean at the Melanoma Research Alliance Patient Forum in Washington, D.C. We were both there as survivors of rare stage IV melanomas, each of us shaped by the fight and committed to advocacy because of it. He may be built like a warrior, but what struck me most was his heart—open, humble, and full of compassion.

His quote now lives on one of our Sun Safe Hoodie hang tags:

“As long as you’re breathing, the fight isn’t over.” – Sean Wachter

From Paralysis to a Rare Melanoma Diagnosis

In 2016, after a construction accident left him temporarily paralyzed, Sean began experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms. Despite seeing multiple specialists, his concerns were repeatedly dismissed—until a massive stroke led to the discovery of a golf ball-sized tumor in his cerebellum. He was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma that had spread to his brain and spinal fluid—a rare and devastating complication called leptomeningeal disease. Doctors gave him three months to live. But Sean defied every expectation. Through intense radiation, immunotherapy, and sheer determination, he became the only documented person to survive and fully recover from this condition.

Becoming the First Known Survivor of Leptomeningeal Disease

Sean's journey through aggressive treatment and an improbable recovery has positioned him as a beacon of hope in the cancer community. His survival story is not just about overcoming a rare disease but also about the relentless spirit that propelled him forward.

Giving Back Through Wrestling and Advocacy

Sean’s return to the wrestling ring wasn’t just personal—it was a platform. He began organizing charity matches and using his presence to raise money for pediatric cancer patients, blending his passion for wrestling with a mission to give back. His story and spirit caught the attention of the WWE, and in 2024 he made a surprise appearance at Madison Square Garden—an unforgettable moment for someone once told he’d never walk again.

Sean’s Perspective: Melanoma Changed Everything

“I truly believe that melanoma is the most beautiful thing that could have happened to me,” says Sean. “It humbled me – and in overcoming it – gave me this beautiful life and family. But it wasn’t an easy journey.”

“Despite everything, I feel like I’m living a full life,” says Sean. “Melanoma took a lot from me, but it also gave me so much and humbled me in ways I can’t even begin to describe. It changed my life for the better – and, at least to me, was worth it.”

Where He Is Now

Today, Sean continues his advocacy as Director of Operations for the New York Dragons arena football team, supporting others and mentoring with the same strength he once used to survive.

Second Rodeo Coffee Company: Brewing Hope

In addition to his advocacy work, Sean co-founded Second Rodeo Coffee Company with his wife, Cindy. The company is committed to ethical sourcing and donates a portion of every sale to nonprofit partners, including WeGotThis.org, supporting individuals facing health challenges. 

Connect with Sean Wachter

• Instagram: @thecancerfighterseanwachter

• Second Rodeo Coffee Co.: @secondrodeocoffeeco

• LinkedIn: Sean Wachter

Some stories steady us. Some ignite us. All are sacred.