I am honored to share that I have been selected as a fighter in Haymakers for Hope’s Belle’s of the Brawl at MGM Fenway on October 14th. Through months of training, I will step into the ring to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer.

This fight is deeply personal.

I am fighting in memory of my brother-in-law, Valentino (“Val”), who lost his battle with advanced Stage 4 renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) in September 2024.

Val was diagnosed in June 2024 after months of severe pain and declining mobility. His wife, Carrie (my sister), quickly became his full-time caregiver while also caring for their 9-year-old son, Nicholas. In August, after spending 11 days in the ICU, the family learned the full extent of his disease. Despite exhausting every treatment option, doctors informed them in September that there was nothing more they could do.

On September 22, 2024, with Carrie by his side, Val passed away. Tragically, it was also the anniversary of the day their relationship began.

In just three short months, their family lost a devoted husband, loving father, and a future they had dreamed of together.

When I step into the ring, I will carry Val’s memory with me. I fight for him, for Carrie and Nicholas, and for every family whose lives have been forever changed by cancer. My hope is that Carrie and Nicholas know they are not alone. They are surrounded by a community that remembers, cares, and stands beside them.

Training is already underway, and I would love for you to follow along. There will be laughter, lessons, sweat, tears, and hopefully a little muscle growth along the way.

Cancer took so much from Val and his family, but together we can help ensure other families have more hope, more time, and better outcomes. If you’re able, please consider making a donation of any amount. Every dollar makes a difference.

Val, this one’s for you. I’ll fight the Elements.