Cancer Survivor Launches Nonprofit to Fix Healthcare System

When Chris Goldsmith faced death three times from a rare cancer, he discovered something broken about the healthcare system he'd spent 15 years leading.

Almost three years ago, doctors diagnosed Goldsmith with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), a rare stage four cancer that affects fewer than 4,000 Americans annually. They found five spots on his intestine, one the size of a small potato, and 15 on his liver.

The healthcare CEO survived his initial diagnosis, then a psychotic episode at a meditation retreat, then a third brutal recurrence that required doctors to remove more than 80 tumors. But survival wasn't enough for Goldsmith.

"I wanted to share everything I know and learned during my own journey to hopefully help my fellow humans who are in a similar position," he said.

He started by writing GUTS: A Healthcare CEO's Bold Battle Against Stage 4 Cancer, combining his personal story with practical guidance on navigating Western medicine, exploring alternative therapies, and managing the emotional and financial chaos of serious illness. His message rings clear: cancer isn't necessarily a death sentence.

Why This Inspires

Goldsmith's unique perspective as both healthcare executive and patient gives him rare insight into what actually needs fixing. He knows the boardroom strategies and the patient bedside realities.

Now he's channeling that knowledge into FixTheSystemOrDieTrying.org, a nonprofit with an ambitious goal. The organization collects real patient stories about what people actually want from their healthcare. Once enough voices are heard, Goldsmith plans to use artificial intelligence to transform those insights into actionable improvements the entire industry can use.

His approach flips the typical healthcare model. Instead of executives deciding what patients need, he's creating a system where patient voices drive real change. The data will be publicly shared, giving anyone working toward better healthcare the tools to make progress.

Goldsmith positions himself not just as a survivor, but as a guide and advocate pushing the industry forward. His 15 years of healthcare leadership combined with his frontline patient experience create a powerful foundation for lasting reform.

Progress drives his purpose now, and he's determined to be part of the movement that transforms healthcare for everyone who comes after him.