University of Minnesota Athletics
Gopher Baseball and LLS Unite for StrikeOut Cancer
10/20/2015 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
The Minnesota baseball team joined the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in its effort to "Strike Out Cancer" over the weekend. The entire Gophers team and representatives from the LLS took to the tailgate lots before the Minnesota-Nebraska football game last Saturday to promote awareness and fundraise for the goal of finding a cure.
At the end of the day, the event raised over $7,000 and was given to the LLS in current pitching coach Todd Oakes' name as he takes on cancer for the third time.
"I have only known Todd Oakes since he was diagnosed with leukemia for the first time," said LLS Executive Director Teri Cannon. "He is a fighter and we're all rallying to lift him up."
Oakes has made a major impact for LLS, having raised $75,000 during a previous 10-week campaign. Since then, "Strike Out Cancer" has become an annual event.
"He is a wonderful man with a gift of compassion and generosity."
Oakes had ties to both universities that were competing as he played collegiately for the Huskers from 1982-83.
"I am extremely humbled and grateful for the time and effort the Gopher Baseball team put in last Saturday before the football game to help raise funds and awareness for our Strikeout Cancer campaign and LLS," said Oakes. "This money will fund blood cancer research that will give hope to other blood cancer patients."
For more information on ways you can help, please visit www.StrikeOutCancerMN.org.
"It takes a team effort like everything else - no one fights alone!"
