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My father James was diagnosed with lung
cancer in 1989. He was a true fighter and faced the
disease head-on with great character and a courage that
continues to inspire me. He may have lost the battle to
cancer in the end, but he never once gave up. Not one time did I
hear him say anything about the pain and suffering he was going
through. He was one tough man, and I'm proud to say...
my hero!
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ISC's Beginnings... |
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Many years ago while recovering from a neck
injury, I was given a second chance. I know most of us never
think about what lies ahead at the young age of 18, but I did!
Like so many people
, I was not prepared to face my own mortality. The
experience affected my outlook on life, as well as those close
to me and dear to my heart. Having gone through so much,
so early in my baseball career, I had a different perspective on
the importance and fragility of life. Maybe, I thought...
There was a reason behind this experience. I promised
myself that one day I would try to give something back for
getting my second chance!
Many years and successes later, while I was
once again in a hospital, recovering from a spinal injury, I
remembered my promise. I had the time now, the funds, but
not a clear idea of exactly what the mission would be just yet.
And then tragedy struck...
My father began fighting the toughest
battle of his life... ...the battle against
cancer.
It was at this point that I knew the
direction for which I would carry out my promise. I
decided to start a charitable foundation to help cancer victims.
After running this idea back and forth to a few people (and
being a Major League baseball player at the time, I was able to
reach a lot of wonderful folks who helped me achieve that goal),
Indiana Sports Charities began. Founded in 1989, I.S.C. would be
dedicated solely to that cause, and it will always remain that
way. Born from the hard work and sacrifices of countless
people who were willing to help out and lead this cause in the
right direction, we have touched the lives of so many special people.
I personally want thank all of you who have
helped to make Indiana Sports Charities what it is today.
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19th Year! |
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Since 1989, we have
hosted an annual celebrity golf outing. Baseball, football,
basketball, radio, television, and newspaper media personalities
have all been in attendance. We are currently going into our 15th
year and have already exceeded the $1 million dollar donation mark!
Indiana Sports Charities gives to 5 area hospitals and we make sure
each and every dollar donated goes to cancer research and
development in these fine institutions.
Since my
father’s passing from cancer, I have been even more determined to
make Indiana Sports Charities better with each passing year. Not
only had I lost my father, but my wife also lost her younger sister
a few years ago and a dear friend. Through the years we have come in
contact with so many people who have been diagnosed with cancer or
who have lost a loved one. These people have all wanted to help make
some kind of difference or help to show their commitment to our
cause and theirs, to stop this dreadful disease. We are always
looking for people to help out, your time and concern is always
appreciated. Please join our team, we need you! |
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