John Galas Tribute Fund

Type: Synovial Sarcoma

Location: Right thigh

Diagnosed: 2023

John Galas spent most of his life immersed in soccer including 30 years of coaching teams through the highs of wins and lows of losses on the pitch. At an early age, he developed a deep passion for the sport embracing its competitive spirit, a mindset that proved invaluable when he faced his toughest opponent yet: cancer. 

John’s cancer journey began in October 2023 with the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, an ultra-rare cancer which he fought valiantly while continuing to mentor and coach players on and off the field until his passing on March 16, 2026.

Reflecting on his sarcoma journey, John acknowledged the gravity of his diagnosis, recognizing it as one of the most difficult moments of his life. Yet, armed with unwavering support from his family, friends, the soccer community, and a relentless fighting spirit, he embarked on a courageous battle against it.

“You never want to be diagnosed with cancer, but there is a silver lining,” John explained.  “You end up galvanizing communities and helping with research.  Bringing people together is the least I can do for the amount of support my family and I have received throughout this process.”   

As a newfound cancer advocate, John propelled himself into the research world with the aim that he could help push research forward. In May of 2024, Lane United Football Club (LUFC) hosted a "United Against Cancer" game is a special, charity event designed to support the sarcoma community. The funds raised were then donated to the NW Sarcoma Foundation during Sarcoma Awareness month.  Then in May of 2025, John was one of the first patients in Oregon to receive T-Cell therapy specifically for sarcoma.

John’s family would like to continue to support the NW Sarcoma’s Foundation’s focus on supporting regional and national sarcoma research to drive advancements towards a cure, thereby improving and extending lives.