Dear Friends,

On Wednesday night October 7th, I am stepping WAY out of my comfort zone and into the boxing ring to benefit Haymakers for Hope. I am excited to be fighting and to have the opportunity to raise money for cancer research.

After trying one boxing class, I was immediately hooked. Learning a new sport has stretched my physical and mental limits and been a lot of fun.

I’m dedicating this bout to my family who has faced multiple fights with this disease. Three of my grandparents as well as my Dad have battled cancer. I also fight in the memory of my Mom who passed away a year ago from ALS. She was the strongest fighter I know and she left a legacy of living life to the fullest, being strong, and giving back. I'm sure she is having a heart attack in heaven knowing that I am fighting but I know she would be proud of me and all the Haymakers’ efforts to support cancer research. I also hope participating in Haymakers shows my daughters not to be afraid to try new things because you never know where you’ll find an adventure that inspires you and allows you to make a difference.

Thank you to my family and friends for supporting this crazy endeavor!

Watch out! Mad Mel is in the ring...