Stuart Scott once said, “When you die, it does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live.”  It is safe to say that Todd Oakes did not let cancer defeat him.  Todd impacted hundreds of student athletes and youth through coaching the game of baseball.  He set an example of how to live life with integrity.  His Strikeout Cancer Campaign is something that meant a lot to him, and we are going to continue to fundraise in his honor.  

Todd was originally diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in June of 2012.  Through a fantastic team of doctors and healthcare professionals along with a “Why Not Me?” attitude, Todd was able to hear the word remission after a stem cell transplant from his brother.  Unfortunately, the leukemia returned again in November of 2014.  Again, Todd leaned on the medical staff, his faith, and his attitude to fight for remission.  After receiving a donor lymphocyte infusion, his health improved.  However, the leukemia would return in October of 2015 for the 3rd time.  Todd passed away in May of 2016.

Our family was fortunate enough to have Todd with us for 4 years after his initial diagnosis.  Many people diagnosed with cancer are not that lucky, especially those with a blood cancer such as leukemia.  After being diagnosed, Todd immediately wanted to help others that were in a similar situation.  He became actively involved with LLS (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) to raise money for further research on treatments to help other patients hear remission.  A major fundraiser combined his passion to help others with his love of baseball, Strikeout Cancer.  

Our family wants to continue Todd’s mission of allowing every patient with cancer to hear the word remission.  We are asking all of you to join us once again to be a part of Team T.O.  This fundraiser has been amazing the past few years.  The outpouring of support from all over the state has been incredible.   We hope that this fundraiser continues to grow and more and more teams are able to participate.  It would be great if all teams could organize a Strikeout Cancer event.  All of the money raised will go towards blood cancer research to continue to give hope to everyone for a healthy future.

Our goal is to raise $25,000 so that we can earn another research grant in honor of Todd. Please consider joining Team T.O. in this effort against blood cancers.  Together we can make a difference!  We wish you the best of luck with your season!