Tarrytown, NY: – On Saturday, September, 2011 in Ocean City, NJ the 2nd Annual Kicks for Clots Kickball Tournament raised over $6,400 and spread awareness about the deadly dangers of blood clots and clotting disorders for the National Blood Clot Alliance. “I’m so thrilled to return to Ocean City again this year for the kickball tournament; an event which so close to my heart! In my late 20’s I suffered from 3 DVT’s and was misdiagnosed so I am passionate about raising the public’s awareness about the signs and symptoms of blood clots and clotting disorders” said Cheryl Fishman, DVT survivor, event chairperson and volunteer for the National Blood Clot Alliance.
“Cheryl, and her committee, Nate Fishman, Joey Palumbo and Kristen Holgerson, did an amazing job organizing the tournament, galvanizing local businesses, recruiting players and spreading blood clot awareness within the community. We are so grateful for their dedication to our mission to Stop the Clot”, according to Traci Wilkes Smith, a blood clot survivor, Kicks for Clots player, and Vice President of the National Blood Clot Alliance.
Almost fifty players travelled from all over of the country including California, Oregon and Massachusetts to kick that big red ball around! The sunny day was full of friendly competition and all of the teams played their hearts out. Congratulations to Team Brother Shamus for winning the tournament. Brother Shamus remained undefeated all day long and took home that priceless tournament trophy! Many local businesses rallied around the event by donating OC favorites to keep players and spectators nourished and hydrated.
Cara Lynch won the top prize of tickets to baseball game donated by Beyond Sports Entertainment for her fundraising efforts. Cara is also young a blood clot survivor and shared her inspirational story about her genetic clotting disorder during the welcome address to the players, supporters and cheerleaders.
“The Kicks for Clots Tournament is another great way for people of all ages and abilities to maximize a sports event they enjoy and to raise funds to help us Stop the Clot. I was thrilled to play and support Cheryl and her families’ efforts again this year and look forward to next year!” said Kristen Holgerson, Director of Development at the NBCA. For information about organizing your own fundraising activity or event please contact Kristen at kholgerson@stoptheclot.org or 914-220-4050 ext. 246! Donations to the Kicks for Clots Tournament are still being accepted; go towww.stoptheclot.org and click make a donation.
