Athens Reporter

Chris Fowler, a U.S. History teacher at Jackson County High School, has returned to his classroom after battling Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. Throughout his fight, Fowler expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from his community.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported us, in any form or fashion," Fowler stated. He emphasized the importance of highlighting positivity and acknowledged the many people who have supported him and his family during this challenging time.

Despite being a private individual, Fowler's struggle with cancer is well-known in the community. The support he and his wife Dani, along with their three children, received included fundraising through bracelets and t-shirts sales, monetary donations, meals, prayers, and well wishes.

"The mental feeling of knowing you're not fighting it alone," Fowler said about the community's support. He admitted that accepting help was difficult but necessary.

Dani Fowler has been a pillar of strength for Chris throughout his journey. "I couldn't have done this without her," he said emotionally during an interview.

Fowler faced isolation while undergoing treatment at the University of Alabama-Birmingham’s hospital for nearly a month. During this period away from family and work commitments like coaching football, he found solace in watching games via webcast.

"Obviously, I am hoping and praying that things worked right," Fowler remarked about his treatment process aimed at resetting his immune system. As part of recovery, he will need to receive childhood vaccinations again due to changes in his immune system.

Though uncertain about the future health-wise, both Chris and Dani remain optimistic. "I am nervous," Fowler admitted but credited Dani for keeping him grounded in faith.

The Fowlers chose Jackson County as their home due to its strong sense of community—a decision reinforced by the support they received during Chris's illness. "My third year (working at JCHS), having to go through cancer... they picked it up," he said appreciatively about the local residents' willingness to help.

Fowler aims to repay this kindness by continuing to contribute positively within Jackson County through teaching and coaching efforts rather than letting cancer define him: "I don't want cancer to be my legacy."

He hopes instead that his impact on students' lives will reflect what others like Heather Backer achieved before him—leaving behind legacies based on good deeds rather than personal battles against illness.