Eric Massa was born into a military family.  So it's no wonder he joined the navy himself after high school.  "What I learned in the military as a kid and then on active duty moving around is that family is not defined by a house but the people in it," said Massa.

Massa, his wife Beverly and their children moved around the world during his 24-year Navy career.  Everything was put on hold when he was diagnosed with cancer.  Massa was told he'd die, but miraculously he beat the disease in 18 months.  "It makes you believe for everyday you are alive and thereafter it's a special opportunity.  It's what brought me into the arena of public policy,” said Massa.

Massa says life on the campaign trail is busy.  That's why he tries to get a few good jokes in a day, usually at his expense.  "I'm a very intense guy.  I am.  What I am doing has a sense of urgency.  This is not a hobby.  Going to Congress on a new team and taking this country in a new direction is serious business," said Massa.

When Massa's military career ended he and his family chose to live in Corning in Steuben County.  Once there he worked for Corning Incorporated, but was laid off during the company's downfall.  "Salt of the earth real people who wake up every morning and worry about the things I worry about are really what makes this country strong," said Massa.