Javan Bailey was only 21 when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in February 2015.

Bailey told his family whatever happened, he would handle what God gave him “like a boss.”

Bailey, the son of Shon and Cynethia Bailey of Athens, completed his treatment and radiation therapy Sept. 11. Soon after, he was declared cancer-free.

Bailey credits God with his recovery and remission from the disease.

His attitude during the ordeal inspired his friends to organize the “Run Like a Boss” 5K run and walk. The event raises money for other families who have a young adult facing a cancer diagnosis.

On Saturday, Sept. 2, the third annual “Run Like a Boss” 5K run and walk to raise money for people undergoing cancer treatment will be held on the lawn of Athens High School stadium, 270 U.S. 31 North. Last year, the money helped Kyara Daniels, a then-14-year-old Limestone County resident receiving treatment for bone cancer at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, and Raquel Ingram of Moulton, who was undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

“Javan is rejoicing in his healing and sharing the greater love that was shown to him during his time of need,” Cynethia Bailey told The News Courier. “With big hopes and aspirations, Javan and the ‘Run Like a Boss’ 5K committee would like to see enormous growth and support of the 5K event each year as we give back and express our concern and bring awareness to the community of Athens and surrounding areas.”

Friends and churches far and wide sent encouragement to Bailey during his ordeal. His church family at Southside Church of Christ in Rogersville backed him entirely and welcomed him as a youth minister and a co-director of the children’s chorus. The Baileys want to continue the ‘Run Like a Boss’ 5K because of the support.”

Registration is $25 and is now open online at http://www.runlikeaboss.org. Sign up before Friday, Aug. 25, to be guaranteed a race T-shirt.

Final registration begins at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 2. Opening remarks and a prayer are scheduled for 8 a.m., with the shotgun start at 8:30. Awards will be bestowed at 10, followed by a closing program and balloon release at 10:30.