The sport of boxing has always interested me but it wasn't until recently that I began to really appreciate the beauty of the sport.  Boxing takes a calm mind and resiliency to stay focused in the ring when everything is chaotic around you.  These are the same attributes that described my late friend Mark Armijo.  I met Mark when he was the school board president at the charter school I taught at in New Mexico.  Mark always had a calm demeanor and a bright spirit.  He inspired me with his love for the youth and their education and also for the love he had for his wife and two kids.  Mark was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Carcinoma in both lungs in May of 2014.  As Mark was going through his treatment his bright spirit and energy were never diminished.  He always had a positive attitude and fought with every ounce of energy he had.  Mark passed in December of 2015 and when the opportunity presented itself to participate in Haymakers and join in the fight against cancer I jumped at chance.  I am also incredibly honored to be fighting in Mark's name and with the support of his loving wife and kids.   

I have chosen a non-profit in Albuquerque to receive the funds raised from my fight.  This organization is named Casa Esperanza and they provide appropriate housing and emotional support for patients and their families who reside temporarily in Albuquerque while the patient receives treatment.