Fighting for a Cause – Tap Cancer Out

I will be the first to admit that I have had a very fortunate life to date. I’ve been able to accomplish a lot over the years, sometimes more closely attributed to luck than skill, but I’ll take it regardless. One of the things I’ve picked up however is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), it’s one of those things that has made one of the biggest impacts to my character, second only to the Marine Corps.

I’ve been actively competing since 2010, but only over the past 24 months have I started to get serious with it.

While I have been fortunate enough to travel, train and compete at will, it’s often been with the focus of either improving myself or helping the team. Rarely, for something much greater, a better cause.

Recently however, I came across an event that seemed to focus on something that was so much more important, so much more impactful. This is made sweeter by the fact that I was just promoted to Purple Belt last night, at Carlson Gracie Temecula and this event will be my first Purple belt event.

Tap Cancer Out BJJ Open 2016

I recently saw a poster for an event called Tap Cancer Out and found myself intrigued. Interesting enough, I had no idea you could raise money, I was registering this money and as I read the details I learned this was possible. Being the person I am, I had to give it a go.

It’s a BJJ tournament focused on helping kids fight cancer. Being a father of three, I can’t even fathom what that must feel like for the kids, let alone the parents. This coupled with the affects cancer has had on me and my family personally, it was obviously something I had to participate in. While the proceeds will go to St. Baldrick’s Foundation, helping kids fighting the good fight, I couldn’t help but think about those closest to me that have lost the good fight. Those like my dear grandma, Mami Luz, who passed way to early, or my good friends mom, Debi Borroff. Both amazing women, who fought hard but are now in a better place.

Some people will walk / run in support of their causes, I instead want to fight. This won’t be the fanciest or biggest event, but it’s definitely the one that means the most to me. Mind you, you’re not donating so that I can fight, I will pay the registration regardless, you’re donating for the foundation as that is where it’ll go.

To place emphasis on this, I will commit to match any funds I raise, up to $5k. 

I’ve set my goal at $5k, will you help me reach it?

Anything you can do to help bring awareness, or help me raise funds would be greatly appreciated. In return, I’ll keep you posted, share pictures and video if possible of the event and be sure to pay it forward.

To get an idea of the event, watch the following video and let me know what you think:

Sometimes all you really want to do is something special for someone else.