Hope Found in the Outdoors
Uplifting Outdoors was inspired by CJ Coudriet’s journey and the hope he found through time outdoors. Don’t Stop Believing.
CJ’s Journey
A Reason to Keep Fighting
At 16 years old, CJ Coudriet of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania has faced challenges most adults never will. Diagnosed with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in 2023, CJ underwent 43 weeks of chemotherapy, 6 weeks of radiation, 3 life flights, more than 90 days in the hospital, and more than 60 units of blood products. Throughout spring 2024 and onward, he fought clots in his bladder from radiation cystitis and continues to deal with radiation damage.
Continuing the Fight
Moving Forward With Hope
In March 2026, concern that CJ’s tumor was changing shape led to a PET scan and biopsy that confirmed his cancer was growing again. After seeking a second opinion at Memorial Sloan Kettering in NYC, he underwent a 12-hour surgery with internal radiation on June 9, 2026. CJ plans to start chemotherapy again as he continues his fight to get rid of the cancer.
What the Trips Meant
For a Moment, You Are Just Doing What You Love
During his journey, several organizations gifted CJ trips and welcomed him like family. Their calls, conversations about upcoming hunts, and the excitement of what was ahead gave him hope and something to look forward to. CJ says those trips saved his life: when you are outside in nature doing what you love, you do not have cancer—you are simply a normal person doing what you love.
Giving Back
From Sanctuary to Mission
The woods became CJ’s sanctuary, a place to heal and dream. “Those hunts gave me a reason to keep fighting.” — CJ Coudriet. He started Uplifting Outdoors in late 2024, and the organization became a 501c3 nonprofit in July 2025. CJ’s goal is to send as many kids and veterans as possible on the dream adventures that helped keep him going.
Uplifting Outdoors
Don’t Stop Believing
Uplifting Outdoors exists to help children and veterans find hope, connection, and unforgettable moments in the outdoors.