While most people with his diagnosis would be beat down and defeated, Bulldog volleyball coach Jason Landers remains standing tall, motivated and unwilling to let anything get in his way.
In February of 2013 Landers received a diagnosis of Adenocarcinoma and Cholangiocarcinoma, which affects the liver and bile ducts.
“It definitely makes you look at life a lot different. When the doctor tells you that you potentially only have so many years to live, the glass is definitely half full,” Landers said. “Sometimes we fret little things in life. We go through the drive-thru and didn’t get our coke. We got diet coke. Some of those things don’t bother you nearly as much as they used to.”
Landers continues to fight the disease and has to complete chemo once a week until the cancer goes into remission.
“We’re still doing chemo once a week, every Wednesday. Everything has been good scan wise. The tumors have shrunk and calcified, so they have died,” Landers said.
An estimated 350 people gathered together in their best super hero outfit on Saturday, October 26 to support Landers fight against liver cancer.
Participants were given the option to run three miles, walk one mile, or even just hang out. Hundreds came out to show their love and support for the cause.
“It was a lot of fun to just see everyone hang out and dress up; it was a really neat day,” Landers said.
Back in February when the news was shared the team members were astonished.
“We were all devastated. I have never been afraid to go to Coach Landers with my problems, because he doesn’t judge. He’s always been so insightful on the court, off the court, and about life,” junior volleyball player Dana Neal said.
Landers’ story has touched many people both on and off campus.
“Coach Landers has impacted everyone in many ways across the Austin area. Seeing him sick made me feel bad, he’s the backbone to our team. I’m blessed to have him in my life, he has made me a better leader and a stronger person,” junior volleyball player Kennedy Godsey said.
Landers has much appreciation for fellow staff members, students, and players who have given him support.
“What really helps me is the kids, they’re so supportive. All of the other teachers and coaches are so supportive of me. They’ll do  anything; it makes it that much better. They’re all supporting me and they’re my friends so it’s nice,” Landers said.