Chafing for Wolves: Two Sons, Two Stories, One Cause
Nick Faxon and Philip Gagne are running in honor of their fathers through “Chafing for the Wolves,” a tribute to love, loss, and the strength of the MUTC community.
In honor of Father’s Day weekend, we’re spotlighting two incredible men in our Man Up to Cancer community: Nick Faxon and Philip Gagne. They are running in memory of their dads through a heartfelt fundraiser called Chafing for Wolves. This effort is more than just a physical challenge. It’s a powerful tribute to the men who raised them and a way to raise awareness for the MUTC brotherhood that supported their families during the toughest times.
Though their paths to the starting line look different, Nick and Phil share a mission: to honor their fathers, uplift this community, and show others that strength and connection are always within reach.
We asked Nick (N.F.) and Phil (P.G.) to share what inspired the run, how training is going, and what this journey means to them.
Q&A with Nick Faxon and Philip Gagne
What inspired you both to run and fundraise in honor of your dads, versus another form of awareness or fundraising? Were either of you runners before this?
N.F.: I started running during my rehab from a heart attack, just eight months after my dad passed. Running became a form of therapy. Phil and I had always talked about finding a way to honor our dads together, and this felt like the right way.
P.G.: I’m not a runner. I ran a 5K in 2008 and got beat by nuns in robes. But Nick inspired me. Watching him commit to his health and push himself gave me the motivation to try. Fundraising for MUTC made total sense. This community meant everything to my dad and our family. It gave him humor, support, and connection when he needed it most. We just want others to experience that same comfort.
Did your dads have any involvement with MUTC or other cancer support organizations?
N.F.: My dad’s fight lasted just under a year. He didn’t get the chance to join formal support groups beyond his motorcycle crew.
P.G.: My dad was an active member of MUTC throughout his cancer journey.
When did your dads pass, and what kind of cancer were they battling?
N.F.: My dad, Paul, passed away on February 7, 2024, from Stage IV colon cancer with a BRAF mutation.
P.G.: My dad passed on September 3, 2024, from Stage IV colon cancer.
What do you hope to accomplish by running this race? And how has training been going so far?
N.F.: After losing my dad and surviving a heart attack at 37, I made my health a top priority. Running keeps me focused. If I can use it to raise awareness for a cause that matters, I will. Training is ramping up now with longer distances. It’s more of a mental game than anything, but I’m excited.
P.G.: I just want to finish. It might not be pretty, but I’m going to cross that finish line. Training has been tough, but I ran two miles straight this morning, which felt like a big win.
For those who may not be able to donate, how can the MUTC community still support you?
N.F.: The MUTC community is already amazing. Honestly, I’m here to give back. The real question is how can I help you?
P.G.: Just knowing the wolves are out there supporting one another and families like mine is all the encouragement we need.
We’re proud to cheer on Phil and Nick as they run in honor of their fathers with heart, purpose, and a lot of grit. Their journey reminds us that even in grief, there is strength, and that with community by our side, we never run alone.
