Averett University and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is once again raising money and awareness for ovarian cancer during its third annual "Caring for Carrie" basketball game on Saturday, Feb. 18. During the 2 p.m. men's basketball game against Maryville College, there will be a special halftime presentation for the event.
The "Caring for Carrie" game is held in honor of Carrie Hendrick, Averett's current Director of Athletic Training. Hendrick is a two-time survivor of ovarian cancer.
"I cannot thank my Averett family enough for their support throughout my journeys with cancer," Hendrick said. "I have been blessed with the opportunity to use my circumstances to both educate and raise awareness when it comes to all cancers, not just ovarian cancer. This event not only speaks volume to the athletes involved, but also to the university. Each year for the past three years we have raised money for the Jimmy V Foundation. This foundation is dear to my heart, as I was personally a recipient of the services offered by the Jimmy V Foundation during my fight."
Averett SAAC helps run the event each year.
"We started doing the game because of Carrie," SAAC President Samm Chandler said. "She was the head (athletic) trainer at that time, so we were all pretty close to her. For her to do all that she does and not let Cancer stop her was a pretty amazing thing."
SAAC has sold teal bracelets, ribbons and T-shirts in the past. A teal ribbon brings awareness to Ovarian Cancer and wearing teal helps show support. This year they will be selling teal AU hats for $15 and teal "Caring for Carrie" T-shirts for $10. All donations and profits from the game will be sent to the Jimmy V Foundation.
"My story is no different from anyone else who was diagnosed with cancer and prevailed," Hendrick said. "I wanted to use my platform to educate the students, and help them understand how important organizations such as the Jimmy V foundation really are."
The Jimmy V organization relies on its donors and volunteers in order to make a difference. Hendrick said it is important to continue to have events like this all over the country in order to keep the research, education and assistance going.
Each year SAAC arranges for a speaker during the half time of the basketball game, but this year Chandler said they will have a special surprise for Hendrick.
"I hope that by seeing me and realizing that cancer does not discriminate nor does it have a face, it will encourage others to get screened and learn more about how they can help," Hendrick said.
Join the Averett Cougars and Hendrick tomorrow for a fight against Ovarian Cancer and a fight against the Maryville Scots.
