Our Founders
Erik Lecomte,
Co-Founder & President
Erik is a passionate and incredibly self-motivated individual who believes all things are possible when the right people are committed to achieving a common goal.
Colorectal Cancer first made itself known in Erik’s life at an early age, as his mother spent the majority of his life in and out of treatment. Despite the toll CRC took on this incredibly resilient woman, Barbara was there for Erik every step of the way; teaching him the importance of education, persevering through challenging times, being a compassionate person, and helping others. After a long and courageous battle, Barbara passed in 2010.
Erik’s father, Fred, is now in remission after a battle with CRC, and Erik himself (a “pre-vivor”) was diagnosed with advanced pre-cancer at the age of 35 after proactively seeking testing in 2020.
The impact that Colorectal Cancer has had on Erik’s life has been hard hitting and long lasting, so he decided to do something about it. Erik founded Champions for Colorectal Cancer, Inc. alongside his close friend, Antonio, in early 2021.
On a personal note, Erik resides in Monroe, CT with his wife and two children, Dominic and Valentina. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and networking with others. He is an executive in the financial services industry and currently sits on the Alumni Board of Directors at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT.
Antonio Dionizio,
Co-
Founder & Vice President
Antonio is a dedicated and hard-working individual who is passionate about helping others. One of his biggest strengths is his keen attention to detail and compassion for those in need.
Colorectal Cancer first came into Antonio’s life in 2003 when his father was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer after spending most of his life as a healthy, hard-working and dedicated construction laborer. Up to this point in his life, Antonio’s father was always viewed by him and others as a tough individual who immigrated to this country from Portugal in the 1970’s and provided a good life for his wife and 3 children. From 2003 to 2005, Antonio saw his father battle through chemo and radiation therapy and develop a weak and fragile outward appearance, but never gave up and showed just how tough he really was. Antonio’s father fought cancer and has been in remission since 2005 and recently celebrated his 82nd birthday. Due to his father’s history, Antonio takes an active role in his health and predisposition to CRC, proactively meeting with his gastroenterologist since the age of 30.
In the past, Antonio was involved for many years participating in his local Relay for Life events but was always more passionate about giving back to the CRC community. After sharing his story with his close friend, Erik, and learning about Erik’s story, they both decided to take action. In early 2021, Antonio and Erik founded Champions for Colorectal Cancer, Inc.
On a personal note, Antonio resides in Oxford, CT. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, and playing soccer and golf. Antonio currently holds a position as an Account Executive at Sentry Insurance.