Ahoy, mateys! Atrium Health Foundation is honored to introduce Mondo Normile, a spirited cancer survivor who’s turned his personal journey into a mission to raise a treasure trove of “pirate’s booty” for cancer programs in the Charlotte area. On July 25–26, Captain Normile and his loyal crew from Team Mondo’s Mission will participate in 24 Hours of Booty, the long-standing cycling event hosted by 24 Foundation.

Inspired by the care and support he received at Atrium Health Levine Cancer following his 2020 diagnosis with a rare form of leukemia, Mondo recently shared a powerful glimpse into his cancer experience—and what drives him to give back and uplift other patients facing similar challenges in our community:

What first brought you to Atrium Health Levine Cancer in Charlotte?

It was 2020, and we were amid the COVID pandemic. My symptoms were getting worse, and I almost fell down the stairs, I was so out of breath. After tests and scans I found I had acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)—a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. I was admitted to Levine Cancer Institute. I cannot tell you how wonderful the care and compassion of the team was during my 41 days of treatment. I am so lucky to have been treated at Atrium Health.

 

How did you find strength during treatment?

My wife, Tammy, kept me going through her strength. I see myself as a survivor—not necessarily a warrior. The encouragement of others really kept me going. It is incredible how people show love and compassion. For example, there was a nurse who was positive with me and wouldn’t let me quit. She encouraged me to not only survive—but thrive.

 

What stood out to you most about the care you received at Atrium Health Levine Cancer?

The care and compassion are evident in all the people working in all roles—and that speaks to a culture of caring. Stephanie, who managed reception at the infusion center, stands out. Her attitude was absolutely amazing. She knew my name and everyone else’s name and treated everyone like they were her “number one” person. She was a real champion.

There was also a nurse named Sydney (we called her Syd), and even during a basic task like taking blood pressure, she had an incredible attitude. The team was so positive and they treated me as a person—not as a diagnosis.

Having access to a nurse navigator was another source of support. She became a vital resource for my wife—someone she could turn to with questions about everything from medications to billing. It meant so much to have dedicated people whose job it was to support not just me, but my family, physically and emotionally. A clear plan was laid out from the beginning, and we had access to help immediately—without ever having to ask for it.

 

How did Levine Cancer’s survivorship programs help you transition from treatment to healing?

I found mental health therapy, which is integrated into patient care at Levine Cancer, to be so crucial when beginning the survivorship journey after cancer treatment. Even when you are finished with chemo or radiation, cancer doesn’t go away. Your life has changed, and you will always have that journey as part of your story.

 

 

What inspired you to participate in the 24 Hours of Booty event?

I’ve been participating for three years, and 2025 will be my fourth year.

I had a friend who had been asking me for years to participate in 24 Hours of Booty, and I thought, “Ride for 24 hours in the last weekend of July? No thanks!” But let me say, once you start, you can’t stop!

When I was in the hospital, I had a lot of time to think and reflect on the things I am thankful for. I was grateful I lived in a community that offered an abundance of care, support, and resources right here. I started to think about other patients who were struggling financially—just to pay an electricity bill or traveling to another community to get the care they needed. I had so many resources and friends, and I thought of people who didn’t have what I had. I wanted to raise money for people who were in need.

 

How does it feel to be part of a community that’s riding for a cause so close to your heart?

Each year has been a little bit different. The first year I had overwhelming emotions at the number of people who lined up along the route. As a survivor, I was riding at the front and seeing these strangers cheering me on was so emotional. The second year, I was focused on the team and learning more about 24 Foundation and talking to other team members, hearing their stories; it was very inspiring. In the last couple of years, I have enjoyed the fundraising aspect. We raised $40,000, and I am so proud of my team and the efforts of the people who have rallied around us.

 

How did you come up with the idea of your team’s “Booty” fundraising party?

I told some friends about 24 Hours of Booty, and they imitated a pirate voice and said, “Argh, booty!” I had a crazy idea that we needed to have a pirate party and raise money for 24 Foundation. In our first year, 2024, we raised over $11,000, and raised $16,000 this year through the party. We had over 100 people dressed up as pirates. Since I’m a fan of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, it was an excuse to go all-out with pirate garb for a great cause!

 

What does survivorship mean to you today?

I am in remission. It is hard to describe the perspective.

I still struggle with the question of what my purpose is and what I can do to help people. I am glad that I am able to raise funds to help others and raise awareness for 24 Foundation and what they do. I certainly appreciate life much more.

 

What would you say to someone who’s just beginning their cancer journey?

I would say that having a therapist is helpful and do not hesitate to share your story because there are people who want to know and care about your story. What I found out is that people want to support you through this journey. Work with your caregiver to figure out what people can do to help. They will ask what they can do, and you should have an answer for them. Ask them to mow your lawn and accept help. I think what I have learned from being a patient is what a simple text, a call, or a note means when you are amid a tough time. It is so helpful and crucial.

 

To learn more about the “Mondo’s Mission” team and Mondo’s participation in 24 Hours of Booty, visit his fundraising page.