Why They Fight: Hope NYC VIII

Monday Nov 11, 2019

With 32 different men & women stepping in the ring for the first time on November 14th you can imagine there must be a lot of nerves and emotions swirling around. Excitement, fear, anticipation, hope, dread, the list goes on. They all have someone they're fighting for, they all have individual things driving them. Their lives have all been touched by cancer in some way. As fight night is approaching get an inside look as to what motivates these brave men and women who are stepping in the ring to literally knock out cancer.

 

When I think about the tools needed over the next 4 months of training, fundraising, and on fight night- I don’t need to look much further than the grit, endurance, commitment, determination, courage, persistence, support, and love that surrounds the cancer battles I’ve seen and continue to see.  Thank you so much to those who have already poured out their support for me and this cause and let’s keep it going up until and after November 14, 2019, so we can KO the real opponent, cancer.
-Callie Simpkins

I have watched too many family members and friends struggle through cancer and the devastation left in its wake.

I have watched many friends participate in Haymakers for Hope to fight back against this horrible disease.

I'm fighting this year because I don't want to keep watching. 
-Logan Lowe

In 2015, my father and grandfather died in a 2 week period. It was a tough time, but I fought through it. Sports helped a lot. I started with triathlons, but picked up boxing last year and fell in love with it. Since 2016, I have raised money for cancer research in sports-related activities. I am proud to be a fighter for Haymakers 2019 and continue those efforts.
-Mike Zabik

I signed up to fight to show myself that sometimes being uncomfortable and vulnerable can be a good thing. Who amongst us is in a family that has not been stricken by this horrific disease. No one I know anymore can say that their life hasn’t been affected in some way by it. I will be fighting for everyone who is battling, has battled or will battle this disease. Please join and support me in this fight to #KOCancer
-Megan Bates

Perhaps because of my own experience, I feel a deep sense of outrage and frustration every time I learn that someone close to me has to fight cancer themselves or that they've lost someone they love to the disease. But along with that frustration is a feeling of determination that we can always do something. We can be there to listen, to learn, to offer a welcome distraction or sometimes just to bring a box of tissues and give a hug. Or, in this instance, we can get in the ring and have a fight to raise money to build awareness, to treat patients and to look for a cure.
-JC Uva

In November of 2016, five days after my 40th birthday, my oldest child and only daughter was diagnosed with AML Leukemia.  She was nine years old.  Today, I am 43 and my daughter is a healthy, active 12-year old.  This is the next step of our journey and why we are going to be winners against cancer as part of Haymakers for Hope – NYC VIII.
-Greg Feig

I am fighting for everyone who has lost a loved one or has been effected by this hideous disease CANCER. In particular I am fighting for my Mother who lost her Mother to cancer at a young age of 65 and I am fighting for the legend and memory of Barry Bremen and the BREMEN family to help find a cure for this devastating disease and all the pain and suffering it leaves in its wake. 
-
Josh Taekman

When my mom was battling cancer, she would tell me that she focused on the positive and never let herself believe for one second that she couldn't beat this disease.  She said "I would tell myself, little by little, I'm beating this disease and I'm focused on getting better every day."

Through the journey with Haymakers for Hope, and in my life in general, I've taken those words to heart and I just try to get a little bit better, each and every day.

-Dave Magstadt

Far too often, someone that I know, or a friend of a friend, is diagnosed with cancer. It is the word we all fear, and it continues to affect the innocent lives of so many people near to us. 

-TJ Cholnoky

                          

Ten years ago, I returned home from my freshman year at the University of Michigan with no summer plan. I applied to work as a counselor at Sunrise Day Camp, the world’s only full summer day camp for children with cancer and their siblings, completely free of charge (www.sunrisedaycamp-longisland.org). Pediatric cancer was not personal to me; it just seemed like something nice to do with my summer before moving on with the rest of my life.

Ten years later…I’m still here. At 24 years old, to the confusion of many, I left a very normal CPA career at Deloitte and became Sunrise's assistant camp director.

Over the last decade, I have met hundreds and hundreds of resilient families devastated by a cancer diagnosis that have mustered the strength to hold it all together. I have hired hundreds and hundreds of the best people I’ve ever met who work their butts off every summer to give our kids an amazing, normal summer camp experience that every child deserves, but our children truly need. I have attended more funerals than I ever thought I would in a lifetime. I have given approximately 100,000 hugs. I have cried. I have watched kids learn how to swim who never thought they would. I have had the most unique summers any twenty-something guy could ever have. Ten years later…pediatric cancer is now very very personal to me.

I am fighting and raising money because I love the 700+ kids of Sunrise Day Camp- Long Island. For the next 4 months, I am not only going to train as hard as I can to win my fight, but I am going to raise as much money as I possibly can to help Sunrise continue to fight against the horrible effects of a cancer diagnosis on a child. We will continue to give our kids and their families the life-changing summers they truly need.
-Dan Silver

I'm going to be honest...the idea of stepping into the ring was (and still is) petrifying. I'm training like hell, pushing myself to physical limits I didn't think my 34yr old body could manage and retesting what it means to be dedicated. I say all this to say something that's very obvious: this is nothing to those battling cancer.

My family, like millions of others, has been afflicted with this brutal disease. I've lost both of my grandparents on my fathers side (Charlotte and William Henry Davis) and my grandmother on my mother's side to cancer. Recently, I watched my first cousin overcome a double mastectomy with grace, determination, and spirit. I'm not alone in hoping we find a cure to cancer and this is one small contribution to the work being done by many others. 
-Toussaint Davis

In May 2017, I lost my cousin and mentor to cancer. I had been boxing casually for the last few years and continually asked myself, "What am I fighting for?" While I was searching for meaning and purpose after losing my mentor, I learned of a charity fight to raise awareness and money for cancer. 
-Stephanie Sollers

I'm fighting for my brother, Scott. He's no longer with us, but if he were he would be my biggest fan in the audience come fight night! Scott died a little over five years ago after an 18 year battle with an incurable form of brain cancer. He is my inspiration for this fight and he is also responsible for any other crazy undertakings I might get involved with! 
-Ashley McNeil

When I first heard about the organization and its 8th annual NYC event (shout out @ Colleen Hartigan), I immediately knew I wanted to be involved. To my late grandfather Louis Gartz, close friend Jane D'Agostino, and countless others who have been impacted by cancer - I will give everything I have to training and fighting in your honor. I've faced adversity in my life, and I will surely face adversity learning how to box in 4 months time, but the will to overcome inherent in any fight vs. cancer is a spirit well worth fighting for.
-Ryan Snyder

I've always wanted to participate in a fitness fundraiser, but running and marathons were never my forte.  (Ironically, I'll have sprinted more in preparation for this fight than I probably have my whole life.)  It wasn't until my uncle was diagnosed with salivary gland cancer that I found my purpose for fighting.  Seeing him suffer made me feel powerless but I used that motivation to set a 2018 New Year’s resolution to pick up boxing and haven’t looked back since.  My second encounter with cancer was with my dragon boat team when we lost our steerer, Andy; that was when I realized how fast the disease can attack and how wide its reach can be.
-Cat Wang

5 years ago I welcomed my first child into this world. Blessed, full of joy, and completely ignorant I starred at the most beautiful thing I had ever seen...my baby girl. And in that moment of pure joy, I was struck with an equally forceful emotion of fear. How could I protect her, shield her from the tragedy of our world and ensure that she live a whole and full life? I have carried this fear with me everyday for the past 5 years and it has only grown as we welcomed our 2nd daughter to the world.

We have come so far, yet still have so far to go to extinguish this horrible disease. My fight is for the future. My fight is for continued success. My fight is for perseverance. My fight is for every parent - so that they can sleep more soundly and let go of a sliver of that fear.
-Jay Ross

F*ck cancer. I've lost cousins to cancer, my aunt, family friends and more. Cancer affects just about everyone, Whether it puts you in the hospital bed or sitting in the chair beside it saying you can beat this. My grandma is fighting cancer for the 4th time. She is 87 and undefeated. I was just a kid when my my mom looked cancer in the face and knocked it into remission. Like I said, F*uck cancer. Now I get to fight for all of them.
-Zack Perl

The latest from the blog

Wednesday May 29, 2024

5 Reasons to Sign Up for Haymakers for Hope Belles of the Brawl

Are you ready to step into the ring and make a real impact? Haymakers for Hope's Belles of the Brawl offers an incredible opportunity for women to lace up their gloves, throw some punches, and fight for a cause that hits close to home. This unique charity boxing event not only supports cancer research, patient care, awareness and survivorship but also provides participants with a chance to experience personal growth, form lasting connections, and achieve peak physical fitness. If you're looking for a challenge that's as rewarding as it is demanding, here are five knockout reasons why signing up for Belles of the Brawl could be one of the best decisions you ever make.     1. Knockout CancerBy participating in Belles of the Brawl, you directly support cancer research and care. The funds raised from these boxing events go to various cancer-related charities, making a significant impact in the fight against cancer. 2. Fight for Your FutureTraining for a boxing match is a rigorous and transformative process. It demands physical and mental strength, resilience, and dedication. Participants often experience immense personal growth, gaining confidence, discipline, and a sense of accomplishment. 3. Join a Knockout CrewJoining Belles of the Brawl means becoming part of a supportive community of women who are all working towards the same goal. The camaraderie among participants fosters lasting friendships and a strong support network. 4. Get Fit, Hit HardBoxing training provides a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health, strength, endurance, and agility. Participants often report significant improvements in their physical fitness, weight management, and overall well-being. 5. Unforgettable MemoriesCompeting in a boxing match is a unique and exhilarating experience that few people undertake. It offers a chance to step out of your comfort zone, face new challenges, and create lasting memories. The event itself is a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the collective effort to make a difference. Apply now for your chance to become a Belle of the Brawl!

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Wednesday Apr 24, 2024

Fighting for a Cause: Haymakers for Hope's 2nd Annual Liberty Bell Brawl

In a world often marred by adversity, it’s heartening to witness individuals stepping into the ring not just to battle opponents, but to take a swing at something far bigger and more formidable: cancer. On Wednesday, April 24th, at The Fillmore Philadelphia, the stage is set for the 2nd Annual Liberty Bell Brawl, hosted by Haymakers for Hope. This event is not merely about boxing; it’s a poignant display of resilience, compassion, and a collective determination to knock out cancer. For each of the 24 fighters, this event holds a deeply personal significance. Cancer, with its pervasive reach, has touched their lives in profound ways. As they lace up their gloves and step under the bright lights of the ring, they carry with them the memories, struggles, and triumphs of their loved ones who have faced this relentless foe. Luke Gambale, a fighter who himself battled Stage IIIB cancer, shares his journey of resilience and hope, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and funds to support others in their fight against the disease. He reflects, “Cancer unfortunately touches so many people and their loved ones and has become a big part of my life over the last few years. Closing in on year 2 of 'No Evidence of Disease,' I can think of no better way to celebrate while raising money and awareness about cancer than stepping into the ring.” Ethan Wergelis-Isaacson, driven by a lifelong commitment to healthcare impact, sees Haymakers for Hope as the next step in his journey to eradicate cancer. He states, “Haymakers for Hope is giving me the opportunity to step into the ring and fight for the eradication of this disease. We've all been impacted in our personal lives and communities by cancer, so I hope you join [us] in our collective fight to knock out cancer once and for all.” For George Balatsinos, the memory of his father’s battle with Mesothelioma fuels his resolve to step into the ring and honor his legacy. His poignant tribute underscores the deeply personal nature of this fight against cancer. Donald Lyons, fighting in memory of his father and niece, shares the heartbreaking stories that have shaped his decision to participate in this event. He says, “I will be fighting in honor of my father, James Wilson (1936 -2002) and niece, Simone Lyons (1993-1995) and everyone who has battled with or lost a loved one to cancer.” Joey Davanzo draws strength from his wife’s courageous battle with cancer, highlighting the profound impact of witnessing a loved one confront adversity with grace and determination. He explains, “Today, I am overjoyed to share that my wife is cancer-free. This experience has become my driving force, propelling me to participate in this event.” Tyler Gilger’s decision to step into the ring is driven by a desire to celebrate the victories of his family members against cancer. His message of resilience and determination echoes the sentiment of hope that unites all the fighters in their mission. David Zhao’s rallying cry for hope, healing, and unity encapsulates the collective spirit of the fighters as they prepare to take on this formidable opponent. He declares, “After intense months of training, fundraising, and more punches than I’ve ever dreamed of taking, I’m ready to prove that when we band together, we can deliver a knockout blow to cancer.” Joyce Adelugba invites others to join her in making a difference, emphasizing the importance of collective action in the fight against cancer. Her call to support fundraising efforts underscores the vital role of community in driving change. Bianca Solari fights not only for those affected by cancer but also in honor of her grandmother, embodying the legacy of strength and resilience passed down through generations. Yuryssa Lewis draws inspiration from her aunt’s victorious battle with cancer, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming adversity. Her commitment to supporting cancer research reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of hope. Lydia Ali’s passionate advocacy for the fight against cancer is rooted in personal losses and a dedication to honoring the memory of loved ones. Her resolve to give cancer a knockout blow speaks to the indomitable spirit of resilience. Kate Skarvinko’s lifelong dedication to helping others finds new purpose in the fight against cancer. Her commitment to supporting loved ones in their time of need underscores the enduring power of compassion and solidarity. Liz Ring’s poignant tribute to her father and all those lost to cancer echoes the collective sentiment of grief and determination shared by fighters and supporters alike. Her resolve to knock out cancer for good serves as a powerful reminder of the stakes at hand. As the fighters of Haymakers for Hope step into the ring at the Liberty Bell Brawl, they do so not only as athletes but as champions of hope, resilience, and solidarity. Their stories remind us that in the face of adversity, it is our shared humanity and collective action that have the power to effect change. Together, let us join them in their mission to knock out cancer once and for all.

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Tuesday Apr 23, 2024

Step into the Ring for a Cause: Why You Should Join Haymakers for Hope

In a world filled with opportunities to make a difference, Haymakers for Hope stands out as a unique and impactful way to contribute to the fight against cancer. Founded on the principle of using boxing as a platform for fundraising and advocacy, this organization has garnered attention for its innovative approach to charity work. But what sets Haymakers for Hope apart, and why should you consider stepping into the ring? Jeff Scola, Rock ‘N Rumble alumni, highlights the unparalleled physical and emotional journey that Haymakers for Hope offers. He emphasizes the raw, visceral connection forged through the act of stepping into the ring, literally fighting against cancer. Beyond raising funds for vital causes, the experience promises personal transformation, regardless of motivation. It’s a chance to push oneself physically and mentally, emerging changed for the better. Chris Rohland, another Rock ‘N Rumble alumni, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the personal nature of the decision to participate. For him, it was a familial connection to cancer that fueled his desire to fight. Through commitment to training and the cause, participants not only achieve peak physical condition but also find profound emotional fulfillment. It’s about looking within oneself and deciding to take action, despite the inevitable challenges. Nikki Joyal, a Belles of the Brawl alumni, adds a layer of enthusiasm to the discussion, highlighting the sheer joy and satisfaction that come from being part of Haymakers for Hope. As both a participant and a boxing trainer, she emphasizes the transformative power of the experience. From raising substantial funds to receiving free swag, every aspect contributes to a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It’s an opportunity not just to help others but to emerge stronger and more resilient. Joanne Beck, a Liberty Bell Brawl alumni, brings a poignant perspective, emphasizing the significance of honoring loved ones impacted by cancer. Whether they’ve battled the disease themselves or supported someone through it, Haymakers for Hope offers a tangible way to fight back. It’s a literal manifestation of the resilience and determination displayed by cancer patients, a chance to stand in solidarity with them. At its core, Haymakers for Hope is about more than just boxing. It’s about community, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of a cure for cancer. It offers a unique blend of physical challenge, emotional fulfillment, and meaningful impact. So, why should you sign up to participate? Because it’s an opportunity to make a difference in a way that resonates deeply with your soul. It’s a chance to step into the ring and fight, not just for yourself, but for those who need it most. Learn more and sign up now in a city near you!

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