TAMPA, Fla. — Neil Breitenbach started racing cars at age sixteen.

"I started early on with drag racing, I got into competitive road racing in my 20’s out in California, that led to running a national series,” Breitenbach said.

The Tampa driver discovered cart racing a couple years ago.

"The competition is incredible," he said. 

But that competition would switch gears and time on the track would become a type of therapy.

"I rolled over onto my chest and felt a sharp pain," Breitenbach explained.

Things came to a screeching halt for the then 40-year-old when he was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. 

"Male breast cancer, that’s the interesting thing, it’s less than one-percent of all breast cancers diagnosed," said Dr. Matthew Fink with Florida Cancer Specialists.

Breitenbach had chemotherapy, radiation, and a mastectomy — the same treatment options available to women.

"There are subtle differences in that one of the most important things we use in breast cancer are therapies that manipulate hormones,” said Dr. Frink.

“So, we have to approach that a little bit differently in men in comparison to women."

Five years into Breitenbach's journey, his cancer spread and advanced to stage four.

His treatment was modified and his fight intensified. Breitenbach immersed himself in things he enjoyed.

"Being able to come to the track, work with the younger generation, make new friends and experience that thrill, that was a huge part of my life earlier in my life is the best therapy," he said.

Breitenbach is taking his passion for racing and turning it into a way to raise awareness.

"Racing for Research was the initiative that I started with Breast Cancer Research Foundation to help awareness in a racing setting," said Breitenbach.

He's raising money for breast cancer and reminding people guys get the disease, too.

"I’ve felt this responsibility, hey my case is a little bit unique. I might be able to tell the story in a way that people might pay attention to, that might not respond to traditional awareness campaigns," said Breitenbach.

"The biggest thing is just that awareness for men to go get their initial diagnosis," said Dr, Fink. "If you notice something get yourself checked by your doctor."

Breitenbach follows up with Dr. Fink at Florida Cancer Specialists once a month.

"Neil's scans tell me all good things," Fink said.

Good news as treatment continues. Good news as Breitenbach's therapy continues at tracks like Andersen RacePark.

"When you’re out here, it’s teamwork, it’s never give up, it’s getting to the finish line first," Breitenbach said. "It’s not easy to win at this or a battle against cancer."

"I’m ten years into this journey and I’m 50 years old and I’m out racing cars with 17 year olds, so the story goes on you gotta live everyday."