>>> justin izlar had courage, strength, determination. it took him six years to graduate from college because of cancer. justin died last week. today students and faculty at coppin gathered and road together to his funeral in washington. >> reporter: it was may of 2010 when we first introduced you to justin izlar. he had a goal -- get a degree, but a degree became a battle of survival. >> it's been a long road for -- i had to take a lot of time off. >> reporter: justin battled osteosarcoma, a bone cancer that attacked his lungs. it took him six years but he earned a sports management degree from coppin state university. >> god blessed me so much and working so hard to finally get here. i really can't say how excited i am. >> reporter: a few months ago his health deteriorated. justin died earlier this month. his mother and family members were at his side. his mother said a sense of peace comforted the family. >> i put my arms around him and kissed him on the head. i said mama's proud of you but it's time for you to take your rest. you're ti

we first introduced you to justin izlar in 2010 after it took him six years to graduate because of medicalroblems. many come together today to remember his life. sherrie johnson with a preview of what we can expect from coppin state university. >> reporter: yes, we're here in west baltimore at the entrance of coppin state university, about 7:30 this morning we're going to have students and staff, to be piled up at daly hall where they will load on to a bus heading for dc to justin izlar's funeral. that bus is all set to take off at 8:00 this morning. yes, we introduced to you justin in may of 2010 as he was working really hard to complete his degree in sports management. after six years and many medical challenges justin finally received his degree in december of 2010. he battled a malignant bone tumor that spread throughout his body and attacked the lungs. a few months ago his health took a turn for the worse. on monday, january 2, 2012, he passed away with family and friends surrounding him. justin touched so many lives with his positive thinking, determination and his per see -- perseve