On October 14, 2026, I will step into the ring for Haymakers for Hope's Belles of the Brawl XIII. While the event is a boxing match, the true purpose is much bigger: raising money and awareness in the fight against cancer.

Cancer has touched my life in a deeply personal way. My grandfather and role model, Papa Steve, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022 and has been in remission since 2023. Watching him battle cancer and the unknown showed me not only the devastating impact this disease can have on individuals and families, but also the importance of hope, support, and continued research. Beyond my grandfather's journey, I have watched numerous family members, friends, coworkers, and loved ones face their own cancer diagnoses. Seeing so many people I care about affected by this disease has reinforced just how widespread cancer's impact is and why supporting research, treatment, and patient care is so important to me. Papa Steve's strength, along with the resilience of so many others, continues to inspire me every day.

As an Emergency Telecommunications Dispatcher, I spend my career helping people through emergencies and difficult moments. Participating in Haymakers for Hope gives me another opportunity to serve others by supporting those currently facing one of life's toughest battles.

Over the coming months, I will be training relentlessly while working to raise funds for cancer research, patient care, prevention, and survivorship programs. I am especially passionate about supporting efforts that help individuals and families navigate diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

This journey will challenge me physically and mentally, but it is nothing compared to the challenges faced by those living with cancer. Every donation, share, and word of encouragement brings us one step closer to making a difference.

Thank you for supporting me, Haymakers for Hope, and everyone whose lives have been impacted by cancer. Together, we can honor those we've lost, support those still fighting, and help create a future with more survivors.