Over the next 3.5 months, I will be training and raising money and awareness for Haymakers and have chosen the Nick Strong Foundation as the beneficiary for the donations I raise. This foundation was created in memory of the late Nick Gaspar, a 16 year old student-athlete and true fighter. The Nick Strong Foundation funds pediatric cancer research and provides financial support to pediatric cancer patients and their families.

In the Spring of 2021, at the age of 14, Nick and his family received the devastating news that he had a brain tumor identified as a Recurring Germ Cell Tumor. Through surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation and a stem cell transplant, Nick fought valiantly for two years. Now, his family continues to fight on behalf of Nick for other children and families who receive this unbearable news. The Nick Strong Foundation recently partnered with the Jackson Laboratory, a non-profit biomedical institution committed to research discoveries that will change the landscape of cancer detection and care. Jackson Laboratory has developed a first-of-its-kind assay that can accurately diagnose germ cell tumors using spinal fluid from a less invasive procedure such as a spinal tap. The Nick Strong Foundation has decided to directly fund these tests, which cost about $2,000 per test. There are approximately 50 samples ready to be tested, and the foundation’s goal is to fund all 50 tests.

Sadly, cancer does not discriminate, even against children. It is excruciating to think of a child and their family enduring such pain. I am passionate about funding this research to ensure that children affected by this germ cell tumor have better treatment options, and hopefully, one day, a cure.

You might be wondering why I decided that a boxing match was the best way to contribute to this cause. The short answer is that I have always believed that in moments of adversity and discomfort, a person truly grows and evolves. My passion for facing challenges head-on and my general intensity (those who know me well are probably laughing) led me to #KOCANCER.

Everyone fights their own battles throughout their lives, but I believe that through our journeys, we can strive to fight our hardest, with grace and courage, inspiring others no matter what we are fighting for — just like Nick and so many others have done for us.

Thank you all for the support, the kind words and your donation to Haymakers and the Nick Strong Foundation.

Now…. LFG!!!