May 28, 2020 by Hilary Jenison
The 11th Annual “Knock Out Cancer” Fundraiser was supposed to be held in mid-May and while it was cancelled due to the pandemic, organizers are continuing their mission to raise money for The Jimmy Fund. While this year there is no event, they are selling “Knock Out Cancer” T-shirts and accepting donations to help continue to raise money. The virtual fundraising event will run through June, 7th, 2020.
South Shore Bank has been the premier Sponsor of Knock out Cancer since inception. We recently caught up with John Mannion, First Vice President for South Shore Bank, to learn more about this important annual event.
“The event started in 2010 when my wife Janice was first diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Initially, it was planned as a one-time event, but it was so well-received that we continued it, shared John Mannion. “When Jan's cancer returned, this time terminal, it was her wish that we continue. She said ‘the fact that her cancer has returned is not a reason to quit, but the very reason to continue to fight.’ Given this was started as a sign of support for my wife and has continued after her passing, this annual event means a lot to myself and my two boys. It is a way to continue to help in the fight against cancer and a way to remember and honor Janice.”
Each year over 150 girls, boys, women, and men typically participate in fun basketball competitions and bid on valuable silent auction prizes. Last year, Knock Out Cancer exceeded $150,000-lifetime contributions to the Jimmy Fund. In 2019, Knock Out Cancer was awarded the Hall of Fame honor for 10-years of fundraising for the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber Cancer Research.
For the first time this year, SNAP (Special Needs Athletic Partnership) members, mentors, and families were planning to compete in the event. South Shore SNAP is a non-profit organization providing athletic and recreational activities for South Shore children and young adults with different abilities and special needs.
“Cancelling this year brings mixed emotions. First, besides being a fundraiser, it has also evolved into a wonderful social event. It is a chance to see people who you do not get to see as much as you would like - especially parents of kids I coached and my sons played sports with, but we know it was the right thing to do,” shared Mannion. “Secondly, this year we were partnering with SNAP for the first time at the event, and we were very much looking forward to this collaboration. I believe SNAP will be part of it in the future, but disappointing it did not happen this year.”
Mannion shared that he has been overwhelmed with the support they have received thus far, even without holding the annual event and they are currently on target to donate at least $10,000 thanks to the dedication of sponsors, family, and friends.
According to Mannion, “We are absolutely planning on bringing the event back next year. As mentioned, what we raise this year will be truly amazing, but being able to be with our supporters again is something I am already looking forward to. With the anticipation of SNAP being part of it next year, I already feel next year's event will be the best yet.”
To purchase a t-shirt, or make a donation by June 7th – please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtual-knock-out-cancer-2020-tickets-103711162880?aff=efbneb