Finding Joy in the Midst of Hardship: The Inspiring Story of Matt Zollinger | My Member Story
Matt Zollinger's cancer journey brought unexpected challenges which he met head on with his characteristic humor and positivity. The Zollinger family's story shows how hope and community can turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Life often presents challenges that test our resilience and strength. For Matt Zollinger and his family, that included a devastating cancer diagnosis. But rather than be defined by it, the Zollinger clan made a conscious choice to not only meet these challenges head on, but also with intense positivity—and a beautifully wry sense of humor.
A heart for helping others
After college, Matt was a dedicated therapist, helping teenagers navigate depression, anxiety disorders and ADHD. Even then, he was a big believer in the power of positive energy, encouraging his patients to channel their anxiety and other hardships into positive actions. Chalene explains, “[Matt] is extremely intelligent, thoughtful, compassionate and devoted to the people around him.”
Then came the devastating diagnosis—cancer. Matt and Chalene moved back to Salt Lake City for treatment at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. To lessen the stress, Matt decided to find a new job rather than continue as a therapist.
Despite having a PhD, he found a position that was lower stress as a salesperson at Prestman Auto, interacting with people daily and achieving remarkable success in sales. His advice for finding fulfillment in life? “Find a support system that is going to edify you so you can make happy choices, safe choices, and choices that are going to move you forward.”
Facing the fight with positivity
Matt was diagnosed with B-Cell Lymphoma, an aggressive and rare form of cancer. Despite the severity of his condition, Matt's positivity and hope carry his family through the darkest moments.
“When Matt was first diagnosed, it felt like another obstacle that we knew we would get through,” Chalene recalls. “His positivity and hope are what sustained us.” Even during hospital stays, their room was filled with laughter—thanks to Matt's incredible sense of humor. Doctors and nurses were often surprised by the joy radiating from their space. Matt's ability to make people laugh and feel at ease, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to his character.
A smile means everything
Matt underwent an intense form of chemotherapy necessary to prevent the cancer from spreading to his brain. While lifesaving, the treatment caused significant damage to his bones, requiring multiple spinal surgeries and other procedures to address complications, including a serious infection.
He also suffered complete tooth loss. “In my house, we called them summer teeth—because ‘some-are’ missing,” he jokes. “You have to laugh at these things.” When Chalene stopped kissing him and the kids said they missed his smile, Matt knew it was time for a change.
After meeting with a physician's group to discuss the cost of a full dental restoration, Matt and Chalene realized they would need financing assistance. Fortunately, Matt's position as a salesperson at Prestman Auto had given him extensive experience with Mountain America Credit Union, which served as an indirect lender for the dealership's financing needs. He reached out, connected to a representative and secured special financing to restore his smile.
“I spent all these years watching Mountain America help people,” Matt says. “When I needed help, they were there.”
Matt's connection with Mountain America Credit Union has been extremely helpful in managing his medical expenses. He praises the personal touch and care he received from the team members and continues to recommend Mountain America for their supportive and caring approach.
A family united
Matt, Chalene, and their four children—Margot (17), Charlie (15), Vaughn (14), and Dietrich (5)—fill their lives with music, travel and history. They enjoy exploring new places and attending concerts together. Their house is filled with learning and exploration.
Matt and Chalene’s resilience through everything has shown in their children, who have thrived through it all, becoming compassionate, positive and happy individuals.
Matt Zollinger's story is a powerful reminder that with resilience, positivity and a supportive community, we can overcome even the most difficult of challenges and find joy in the journey.
Matt and Chalene, we are honored to be part of your journey—and we take with us the lesson of finding joy, light, love, humor and laughter to sustain us in the face of adversity.
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