Help Joey Belans: Facing Cancer After Layoff

Update: Thanks to this community's incredible efforts, we applied enough pressure to trigger favorable action by Optiv. As of 8/31/2024, Joey has been reinstated as a full-time employee. I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who supported the Belans through donations, prayers, or simply spreading the word.

Respectfully,

Travis Weathers

Sine Pari

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Joey Belans is more than just a colleague; he's a pillar of strength, a beacon of wisdom, and a true example of what it means to be a great husband, father, friend, mentor, and colleague. I had the privilege of meeting Joey when I first joined the Security Assessments team at FishNet Security. As my technical mentor, Joey guided me through the challenges of our industry, shaping my career in ways I will forever be grateful for. Over the past decade, I've been honored to work alongside him, witnessing firsthand his unmatched dedication and impact on everyone around him.

Throughout his time on Optiv's Attack & Penetration Team, Joey touched the lives of countless coworkers through his mentorship and dedication. His influence didn't stop there—Joey's expertise has helped thousands of clients navigate the most complex security challenges. He is the pinnacle of excellence in our field.

However, Joey is now facing a battle that no one should have to fight alone. Earlier this year Joey was diagnosed with stage 4 Hemangiopericytoma/SFT, a rare form of cancer that has metastasized from his brain to his lungs. Despite the daunting challenge ahead, Joey has continued to show the same resilience and strength that he has always brought to his work and life.

Joey was preparing to go on FMLA for another round of chemotherapy when, tragically, he was impacted by the recent layoffs at Optiv. The timing could not have been worse, and the loss of employment has added an unimaginable burden on Joey and his family during an already incredibly difficult time.

We are reaching out to you—Joey's friends, colleagues, and those touched by his mentorship and kindness—to help support him and his family as they navigate this challenging journey. Your donations will go directly towards Joey's medical expenses, as well as providing some financial relief to his family during this time of need.

Joey has given so much to all of us, and now it's our turn to give back. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference and show Joey that he is not alone in this fight.

Thank you for your generosity and support.