Local high school coach battling stage 4 cancer - New York News | NYC Breaking News

A local high school coach is fighting for his life after finding out that he had cancer just three weeks ago.

Milton High assistant football coach Mike Scott, 36, went to get help with acid reflux. Tests revealed he had stage four cancer that started in his pancreas and spread to his liver and lungs.

"He got diagnosed from the oncologist that he only had six months to live," said Milton High coach Howie DeCristofaro.

Six months for the coach who has made his wife and two young children and the football field his life's most important priorities.  

"He's made me a better person.  I can't imagine being here without him," said Josh Harris, a senior at Milton High.

Scott coached the offensive line.  Seniors said that he made them both better players and better men.

"He's the strongest person I know, so we just want to stay strong like he is," said Cory Helms.

Players said that Scott has taught the team never to give up, even through the hits and fumbles they encounter.

The young men hope that Scott's remaining days are full of love and free of pain.

"Life's not fair, get used to it. And I told them the other day, here's a prime example. He's just 36 years old. It's not fair. But you got to keep going on, keep pushing.  What other alternative is there,'" said DeCristofaro.

Scott should be heading home from the hospital where he'll receive hospice care in the next few days.

The family is trying to raise money to help cover medical bills.

For information on how to help, visit: http://www.giveforward.com/miracleformike