This November, I will step into the boxing ring in honor of my mother, Roxanne. She was more than just my mom; she was my best friend, greatest cheerleader, and the source of so much happiness in my life. As a single mother, she tirelessly worked multiple jobs to raise me and my two siblings, ensuring we never lacked love or support. She was our pillar of strength, our rock.

When she married my stepdad, our family discovered boxing. Together, we cheered on Jermain Taylor, an Arkansan like us, as he became the undisputed middleweight champion. Boxing became a new passion that helped us come closer as a blended family.

Sadly, my mom was diagnosed with T-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia in 2011. She faced her illness with strength and courage, embodying the spirit of a true fighter. She made every moment count, even dancing with me in her hospital room—a dance reserved for my future wedding, held early in case she couldn’t be there when I found the right partner.

She passed away in the spring of 2012, but her memory and fighting spirit persist. Join me as I take on this fight, honoring my mom and helping others in their battles against cancer. Every donation brings us one step closer to finding a cure. Let’s keep fighting—like my mom did, with an unyielding spirit and an open heart.

Thank you for supporting me on this journey!