Urbaczek was the longtime owner of Cosmic Surf Shop in Toms River for 30 years, which helped ensure everyone had their dream summer on the Shore.
Last August, Urbaczek was diagnosed with leukemia and his son, James, said he remains his old stubborn self.
"He’s been caught escaping hospital rooms, making friends with nursing staff and other patients, promoting his old surf shop (which he still promises is reopening next summer), and generally giving cancer a run for its money," James said on a fundraising page. "His tolerance of chemo and unwavering sarcasm through it all has been admirable, to say the least. He’s absolutely not quitting anytime soon."
Urbaczek is set to receive a bone marrow transplant that hopefully will save his life, but comes with a cost: hospital stays, recovery time and other logistics. While insurance is covering most of the cost, James launched the fundraiser knowing everyday expenses will add up quickly.
"If you’ve ever hung around Cosmic, caught a wave with him, been a character in one of those crazy stories, or just appreciate a stubborn Jersey surf legend who won’t give in to the system, this is a chance to show up for him," James wrote. "Frank’s favorite Muhammad Ali quote ends with, 'the will must be stronger than the skill.' He’s carrying it with him every day... and yes, he’s pulling it up on his phone to show every nurse he meets."
To view the fundraiser, click here.
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