Watkins, an avid skier, describes the slopes as his happy place, a source of joy and even love.
"That's where I met my wife, as I was the running joke of my life-the girls there didn't like me very much," he told ABC11 News.
This year, however, the snowy peaks represent something deeper: hope.
In January, Watkins discovered a tumor and was diagnosed with stage 1 testicular cancer.
"It was instant alarm bells," he said, reflecting on the whirlwind of treatments that followed.
By August, he had completed his treatments and rang the bell, believing he was cancer-free.
But two months later, his tumor markers were elevated again. The cancer had spread to his lungs, advancing to stage 4.
Now, Watkins faces a more aggressive treatment plan, including heavy chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants, set to begin on Thanksgiving Day. Despite the daunting road ahead, he remains focused on gratitude and faith.
"I'm just grateful for every day I get," he said. "I have a lot of faith that I'm going to beat it this time."
Watkins also credits his wife, who he calls his "cancer project manager," for her unwavering support in managing the logistics of his care.
"What else could you ask for?" he said. "She's been amazing."
As he looks forward to returning to the slopes, Watkins hopes to share a message of appreciation.
"Remember to try to appreciate every day," he said. "You never know when normalcy is going to be taken away from you."
With the support of his family, friends, and the Raleigh Testicular Cancer Foundation, Watkins is determined to overcome this challenge and inspire others to cherish every moment.