UNICO National, an Italian-American organization, held its national convention in Crystal City, Va., from Aug. 3 to 7. As part of the ceremonies, the Hackensack Area Chapter presented the V Foundation for Cancer Research with a check for $1,000.
In January 1993, Jim Valvano (1946-93) met with ESPN executives, who offered their support in creating a foundation that would fund cancer research. He had reached the highest level of success as a basketball coach and then as an award-winning commentator at ABC and ESPN. He authored three books, gave hundreds of motivational speeches to corporations across the country, hosted weekly television and radio broadcasts, and created his own corporation.
The foundation’s story began as Jim Valvano uncomfortably sat on a small stool in the corner of a doctor’s office. A stranger in a white lab coat entered the room and informed him that he had a year to live. He was sweating profusely and wiped his brow before shaking the doctor’s hand and walking quietly to the parking lot. Metastatic adenocarcinoma would prove the toughest opponent that this coach had ever faced.
During one of Valvano’s final interviews, he said, “I want to help every cancer patient I can now. I don’t know if I can handle that, but it’s the only conceivable good that can come out of this.” Valvano proved that he could more than handle his final role as a cancer advocate. He spent the final 10 months of his life giving the world personal insights into the life of a cancer patient in the hope that he could bring some attention to the disease that affects millions. He was not afraid to let others witness his weakening body or the tears that he shed when he spoke of his certain death during interviews and public appearances. He knew that his body would lose the battle against cancer, but his vibrant spirit was the gift he would leave behind.
The V Foundation for Cancer Research continues to be guided by the legacy of one man who refused to give up. The foundation embraces Valvano’s call for action, his love of people, and the courage that enabled him to find hope even in despair. Jim Valvano remains an enduring example of the timeless influence that one individual can have in this world.
In 1999, UNICO National formed a charitable partnership with the V Foundation for Cancer Research and together they have raised funds to combat this disease.
