NEWS

September 21, 2023

College Volleyball Player, Catherine Milkovich Hosts Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Game, Remembers Her Late Father

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments

In a heartfelt collaboration that unfolded in just three short weeks, Sideline Cancer and college volleyball player Catherine Milkovich joined forces to host a meaningful event—the Bigger Than Volleyball Game. This event, held in honor of Catherine’s late father, Steven John, aimed to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, the disease that tragically claimed his life.

The concept behind the Bigger Than Volleyball Game was elegantly simple: to shed light on the devastating impact of pancreatic cancer and pay tribute to Steven John’s memory. Catherine Milkovich, having witnessed her father’s battle with this formidable disease, felt compelled to use her platform to advocate for awareness and support.

The solidarity of the community was evident as players from both Mount Aloysius and Lycoming College rallied together for the cause. Sporting Sideline Cancer T-shirts, the players not only showcased their commitment to the fight against pancreatic cancer but also encouraged the audience to participate. Supporters in the stands joined the cause by making purchases, contributing to the collective effort to raise funds for cancer patients.

The competitive spirit reached its peak on the court, with Lycoming College emerging victorious in a gripping five-set thriller. The intensity of the game reflected the dedication of the players to the cause, creating an atmosphere charged with emotion and purpose.

In a moment of celebration and solidarity, Catherine Milkovich and her teammates marked their triumph by raising the I Can Cup in unison. This symbolic gesture served as a poignant reminder of the event’s overarching message: the “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit” can triumph over life’s adversities, even in the face of the formidable foe that is pancreatic cancer.

The impact of Catherine Milkovich’s dedication to the cause resonated beyond the court, with her picture earning a prominent place on the @sideline.cancer Instagram account. By embodying the “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit,” Catherine exemplifies the resilience and determination that define Sideline Cancer’s mission.

The Bigger Than Volleyball Game not only showcased the athleticism of the participating teams but also became a powerful platform for raising awareness about pancreatic cancer. Catherine Milkovich’s journey from a relative stranger to a pivotal advocate for Sideline Cancer underscores the profound impact that individuals can have when they come together for a greater cause. As we reflect on this event, we are reminded that through collective efforts and a resilient spirit, we can make strides in the fight against cancer and honor the memories of those we have lost.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

August 25, 2023

Rivalry Football Game Raises $7,400 for Patients, Hollidaysburg Wins, Sideline Cancer Celebrates a Decade!

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments
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In a poignant celebration of a decade of dedicated service, Sideline Cancer recently marked the 10th anniversary of their impactful “Sideline Cancer Games” at Hollidaysburg High School. This year’s event, however, held a special significance as it was integrated into the much-anticipated Rivalry Game against Altoona, breaking new ground for the organization.

The Sideline Cancer Games have become synonymous with hope and community support over the years. As they celebrated their 10th year, the commitment to their mission was evident in the collective effort to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

This marked the first time that Sideline Cancer joined forces with the longstanding Rivalry Game against Altoona, creating an intersection of sportsmanship and philanthropy that would define the event. The fusion of the two events elevated the excitement and purpose, bringing together the community for a greater cause.

In a remarkable show of generosity, the community nearly doubled last year’s fundraising total, contributing an impressive $7,400. This substantial amount was then distributed to two deserving families – The Kepharts of Hollidaysburg, who received $2,000, and the Stolz family of Altoona, who received a significant $5,400. The impact of these funds goes beyond monetary value, offering a lifeline of support to those bravely battling cancer.

The community spirit was further evidenced in the sale of over 800 articles of clothing between the two schools. Additionally, $3,400 in direct donations poured in, emphasizing the widespread commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by cancer.

On the day of the game, the atmosphere was charged with emotion and excitement. A sell-out crowd gathered, underlining the community’s wholehearted involvement in the cause. The game itself lived up to its rivalry status, with Hollidaysburg emerging victorious with a thrilling 21-20 win. The triumph extended beyond the field as Hollidaysburg celebrated with the coveted “I Can Cup” for the first time, symbolizing not only a victory in the game but a triumph in the collective fight against cancer.

Adding to the significance of the day, Sideline Cancer announced a partnership with the Brian Morden Foundation of Altoona, further amplifying the impact of their collective efforts. This collaboration underscores the interconnectedness of various organizations working towards a common goal – supporting cancer patients and their families.

In conclusion, the Rivalry Football Game transcended its role as a sporting spectacle; it became a powerful narrative of community strength, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to combating cancer. Sideline Cancer’s 10th-anniversary celebration at Hollidaysburg High School showcased the incredible potential of combining sports, community, and a noble cause, leaving an indelible mark on the ongoing fight against cancer.

To host a Sideline Cancer Event click here : HOST A SIDELINE CANCER EVENT 

To show your support and help raise awareness you can purchase your Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer 

Follow Sideline Cancer on Instagram here : @sidelinecancer

July 30, 2023

Sideline Cancer Advances to Sweet 16, Next Game on ESPN vs. University of Marshall

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments
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The 2023 TBT Tournament has been full of excitement. Sideline Cancer making a deep run in ESPN’s The Basketball Tournament has been just one of this years highlights. The excitement surrounding their journey has become a tradition that fans eagerly anticipate each year.

Sideline Cancer has once again proven their prowess in The Basketball Tournament, securing a spot in the Sweet 16. Their consistent success is more than a testament to their skill on the court; it’s a thrilling chapter in the ongoing narrative of this formidable team.

In a poignant Round of 32 matchup, Sideline Cancer found themselves facing off against Challenge ALS, a fellow non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) Disease. The game unfolded on the grand stage of ESPN+, in the heart of Wheeling, WV. What transpired on the court was not merely a basketball contest; it was a profound meeting of two organizations, each passionately championing their respective causes. As the players dribbled and soared toward the hoop, the audience witnessed more than a display of athletic prowess. Sideline Cancer, with its mission to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, and Challenge ALS, fighting against the debilitating effects of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, showcased a shared commitment to causes larger than the game itself. In the end, the score told a story of Sideline Cancer’s triumph—a 60-51 victory that extended beyond the court. This “Bigger Than Basketball” moment served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact sports can have in raising awareness for important causes. It was a testament to the resilience and determination not just of the athletes but also of the communities they represent.

Beyond the scores and highlights, Sideline Cancer has a mission that extends beyond the court. Their purpose in The Basketball Tournament goes beyond winning; it’s about spreading awareness about Pancreatic Cancer, the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. With every dribble and every point scored, they aim to make a difference in the fight against this devastating disease.

The impact of The Basketball Tournament reaches far beyond national borders. With games played in 197 different countries, this competition has become a global phenomenon. The accessibility of the tournament, available for streaming on smart devices, allows fans from all corners of the world to witness the excitement and passion that define Sideline Cancer’s journey.

The excitement continues as Sideline Cancer gears up for their Sweet 16 showdown against the University of Marshall. Set to tip off at 2 PM on ESPN, this highly anticipated matchup promises to be a thrilling spectacle for basketball enthusiasts. ESPN’s College Basketball Analysts, Tim Scarboro and Matt Martucci, will be calling the shots, adding their expertise to the broadcast.

As Sideline Cancer advances in The Basketball Tournament, the anticipation grows. Beyond the scores and statistics, this team carries a mission that resonates with fans worldwide. Make sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming game, tune in to ESPN at 2 PM, and join us in supporting Sideline Cancer as they continue their remarkable journey through the tournament.

To help show your support and spread awareness purchase your official Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer

Learn more about The Basketball Tournament here : TBT 

Follow Sideline Cancer on instagram here : Sideline Cancer

Follow Team Challenge ALS on instagram here : Team Challenge ALS

July 24, 2023

Sideline Cancer’s 9th Grade Girls AAU Team Advance to Select 40 National Championship

BY: LEANN STEFAN / No Comments
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In the world of basketball, triumphs are not just measured by points on the scoreboard; they are also defined by the impact a team can make off the court. For Sideline Cancer’s Head Coach, Charlie Parker, the journey to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer goes beyond the professional games. Recently, Coach Parker demonstrated his commitment to the cause by leading his 9th Grade Girls AAU Team to the Final Four and Championship at the prestigious Select 40 National Championship at Spooky Nook Sports Complex in Manheim, PA.

While gearing up for a high-stakes game to be aired on ESPN, Coach Parker made a special trip from Wheeling, WV, to guide and inspire his younger squad. The Sideline Cancer AAU Program has always been more than just a basketball program – it’s a platform to spread awareness about pancreatic cancer, a disease that affects countless lives each year.

The Select 40 National Championship stands as the largest grassroots national circuit for girls in the country, providing a stage for emerging talents to showcase their skills. Against fierce competition, Sideline Cancer’s 9th Grade Girls exhibited determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship, securing a commendable 2nd place finish.

But beyond the victories on the court, the Sideline Cancer team forged connections and shared the message of hope. During their journey, they met incredible warriors like Kellene Pepple and her mother, encountered during the “Run 4 The Roses” Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky. These encounters serve as powerful reminders of the real-world impact that sports, and organizations like Sideline Cancer, can have.

Sideline Cancer’s AAU Program has had an outstanding season, surpassing expectations, especially with the remarkable performance of the 9th Grade Girls Team. As they tirelessly strive for excellence on the court, the team continues to rally support for pancreatic cancer awareness, fostering a community of strength, resilience, and unity.

As we celebrate the achievements of Sideline Cancer’s 9th Grade Girls AAU Team, let’s not forget the deeper purpose that propels them forward – a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by pancreatic cancer. Through their victories, both big and small, Sideline Cancer exemplifies the true spirit of sportsmanship, using the game of basketball as a platform to spread awareness and inspire hope in the face of adversity.

To help show your support and spread awareness purchase your official Sideline Cancer apparel here : Sideline Cancer

Follow Sideline Cancer on instagram here : Sideline Cancer AAU

 

May 25, 2022

WJAC Story – How local ‘Sideline Cancer’ team led to American basketball player’s escape from Ukraine

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

by Nicole Fuschino

BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — The Hollidaysburg-based Sideline Cancer basketball team has donated over $300,000 to pancreatic cancer research, given over $10,000 to patients directly, and were The Basketball Tournament runners up in 2020.

The latest thing they’re adding to their resume — doesn’t have to do with basketball or cancer — it’s helping to save someone from a war-torn country.

Here’s how it happened…

Click here to read the rest of the article and to watch the story ->

 

February 5, 2022

How Sideline Cancer Connects Patients, Doctors, and Communities

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

On February 5, 2010, Greg was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic and liver cancer in the prime of his life. He was told that time was limited.

However, on hearing his diagnosis, he said to his doctor, Dr. A. James Moser,  “What can Cathy and I do to help you?” The doctors were amazed to hear this question from a terminally ill patient. 

The Griffiths: Jordan, Greg, Cathy, and Jamie

From there, a new trajectory for pancreatic cancer began. Instead of a medical tragedy, this event became the beginning of a very beautiful story.

God blessed Greg and his family with the gift of 19 miraculous months. Throughout this period, Greg made a tremendous difference in many people’s lives by being an example of how one can persist through intense hardship.

Greg Griffith’s legacy was his ability to lead and connect with people and communities. His legacy of love is a true manifestation of “I CAN” Sideline Cancer. It is the I CAN attitude and Believe Always Spirit he displayed that inspires students of every age to use their entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic ideas to transform the outcome of pancreatic cancer.

The Origins of Sideline Cancer

The initial campaign slogan of the Griffith Family Foundation’s youth initiative was “Tackle Cancer.”

Through this initiative, hundreds of local students rallied to take part in a cause that was bigger than themselves.

In 2012, Cathy had the privilege of meeting the Intel Science and Engineer fair winner Jack Andraka.

Cathy holding up an original “Tackle Cancer” t-shirt

Cathy shared Greg’s story and told Jack about the energy building through the Foundation’s youth initiative. Jack expressed great interest in the effort and even volunteered to participate himself. However, he suggested that our original “Tackle Cancer” slogan was too limited.

Cathy’s son, who is a teacher and basketball coach, and another devoted teacher and family friend, came up with the slogan “Sideline Cancer.” Shortly after that, a student pointed out the “I CAN” within the slogan, which is what led the Griffith Family Foundation to officially trademark SIDELINE CANCER®. 

Jack Andraka went on to become the ambassador for Sideline Cancer and inspired many other students to believe that they can be a change in our world.

Today, Sideline Cancer is a fast-growing brand with over 17,000 t-shirts sold in it’s 11 year history.

Sideline Cancer and TBT

In 2014, as the Sideline Cancer message and t-shirts were quickly growing in popularity, an amazing opportunity presented itself. Lifelong friend and basketball coach Billy Clapper asked Cathy if he could put a Sideline Cancer basketball team together to participate in the inaugural The Basketball Tournament (“TBT”).

Because Greg was a lifelong fan of basketball, Cathy saw that getting involved with TBT would be a fitting way to honor Greg’s legacy and a great opportunity to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer.

For the past 8 years, our Sideline Cancer TBT team has excelled on and off the court in raising awareness for pancreatic cancer. On the court, our Sideline Cancer TBT team went to the final in the very first COVID bubble tournament in 2020. Off the court, awareness for pancreatic cancer has grown, as TBT now airs in over 197 countries on ESPN. 

The outstanding efforts of our Sideline Cancer TBT team has been the inspiration behind the formation of several Sideline Cancer AAU basketball teams. These next generations of basketball players are proudly wearing their purple with an I CAN attitude and Believe Always Spirit for all pancreatic cancer patients, families, and communities across the nation.

Connecting with Patients and Doctors

Many pancreatic cancer patients follow our basketball team and foundation activities. One such person is pancreatic cancer survivor, Rick Jones. On New Years Eve 2015, Cathy Griffith received a call from Rick Jones who told her, “I have Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer. Where do I go from here?” 

Rick is an accountant in Bedford, PA and loving husband and father to three daughters. A friend of Rick’s knew of the Griffith Family Foundation and gave Rick Cathy’s cell number.

Once Cathy heard that Rick had Neuroendocrine Pancreatic Cancer,  she immediately connected him to Dr. Moser at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard Medical School.

Rick Jones and Dr. Moser
Rick Jones and Dr. Moser

Appointments were quickly made, and Dr. Moser was able to surgically remove the pancreatic cancer. Dr. Moser was also able to refer Rick to UPMC Pittsburgh for a liver transplant (read more about that amazing story). 

Today, Rick leads a normal and active life with his family and partners at his accounting firm. Although Rick is not considered “cancer free,” he is considered to be in stable/normal condition by his medical team and will continue to be routinely monitored. 

Rick and Cathy at the 2015 Sideline Cancer Dinner
Rick and Cathy at the 2015 Sideline Cancer Dinner

In 2015, Rick attended and spoke at our Sideline Cancer Dinner. In 2019, he participated as a panel member at our Pancreatic Cancer Symposium.

Helping to save Rick’s life is one of the greatest examples of how the Griffith Family Foundation and Sideline Cancer connect patients, doctors, and communities to sideline pancreatic cancer.

Where Pancreatic Cancer is Today

Interestingly, while Rick was undergoing treatment, he participated in a DNA testing study with the University of Washington in Seattle where they determined his gene sequencing. Doctors did gene sequencing for his entire family, including his mother and father, brother and sister, uncles and cousins. 

In their examination, it was discovered that Rick was missing a particular gene in his sequencing.

From there, doctors looked at the entire population of Rick’s family to see if anyone else was missing the gene. This study is now being used to help many others.

As noted by Dr. Anirban Maitra at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, the current national guidelines recommend that all patients with pancreatic cancer undergo genetic testing, not just those with a family history of the disease. 

Dr. Maitra and Cathy
Dr. Maitra and Cathy

These studies show that nearly 10% of pancreatic cancer patients have an abnormal DNA alteration in their blood, and these tests are able to detect that abnormality.

This testing is important for two reasons:

  1. There are now treatments that patients themselves can benefit from because the treatments are tailored to some of these DNA abnormalities. These treatments are called “precision” or “personalized” medicine.
  2. If a patient has a DNA alteration in their blood, then all their blood relatives (siblings, children, etc.) can also get tested to see if they carry the abnormality. If they do, then they can get screened for pancreatic cancer and hopefully discover it early.

Since this genetic testing has become part of the guidelines, many insurance companies are paying for the test.  Additionally, as the tests become more sophisticated, the cost of administering the test has been reduced from thousands of dollars just a few years ago to around $250 today. Also, these tests don’t require blood samples anymore. The tests are advanced enough to only require a patient’s saliva.

Where Sideline Cancer is Going

From 2010 through 2021, the Griffith Family Foundation has donated over $300,000 to pancreatic cancer research and raises awareness internationally.

The Greg and Cathy Griffith Family Foundation continues in 2022 to connect with communities all around the world through their ongoing memberships and support of the World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition and the Digestive Diseases National Coalition.  

In the fall of 2022, The Griffith Family Foundation established Sideline Cancer Athletics.

The Griffith signature statement that is shared throughout all communities is to Believe Always that Together We Can Sideline Pancreatic Cancer!

February 2, 2022

June 17, 2022 Sideline Cancer® Golf Tournament Information

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

Information for the 2022 Sideline Cancer® Golf Tournament

CONTINUE READING

June 22, 2021

2021 Sideline Cancer Golf Tournament Photos & Results

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

From LEANN STEFAN PHOTOGRAPHY:

It was an absolute perfect day to golf and spend the day with the Sideline Cancer Family!! It was so wonderful to meet everyone and capture all of the fun.

Follow the link SIDELINE CANCER GOLF TOURNAMENT 2021 to see all of the photos from the event!

Tournament Results

Men’s Teams

1st Place (55)

Kaleb Fleck
Levi Delozier
Grant Delozier
Danny Stubbs

2nd Place (56)

Eric Kozak
George Kozak
Trent Martin
Garret Shaw

3rd Place (57)

Terry Burgan
Charlie Harten
Keith Saleme
Brian Hall

Mixed Teams

1st Place (64)

Lisa Georgiana
Susan Robison Fruchtl
Terry Goldstein
Dr. Sahaney

2nd Place (66)

Jackie Lantzy
Katie Whysong
Jenny Beach
Cory Tubo

Ladies’ Teams

1st Place (59)

Chris Sisto
Dianne Stewart
Tick Shaeffer
Peggy Smith

2nd Place (65)

Kim McCarl
Rox Sky
Cindy Trimarco
Michelle Day

Skill Prizes

Closest to Pin #2 (Men) – Aaron Peterman – 6′ 3″
Closest to Pin #2 (Women) – Patty Brouse – 13′ 4″

Closest 2nd Shor #6 – Kaleb Fleck

Closest to Pin #8 (Men) – Brad Kessler – 10′ 2″
Closest to Pin #8 (Women) – Cindy Trimarco – 9′ 1″

Longest Drive #9 (Men) – Brain Hall

Longest Putt #10 – Frank Pallott Jr.

Closest to Pin #12 (Men) – Brian Hall – 6′ 11″
Closest to Pin #12 (Women) – Susan Robinson – 12′ 11″

Longest Drive #14 (Women) – Jackie Lanzy

Closest to Line #16 – Ryan Keller

Closest to Pin #17 (Men) – Levi Delozier
Closest to Pin #17 (Women) – Peggy Smith

Longest Putt #18 – John Higgins

June 20, 2021

WJAC Story – Believe Always: Sideline Cancer hosts inaugural basketball clinic

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

by Nicole Fuschino

HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. (WJAC) — Saturday morning, high school student Sydney Lear learned the game of basketball while playing for a bigger purpose.

“It’s fun to be playing for a bigger cause, something bigger than basketball,” she told 6 News…

Click here to read the rest of the article and to watch the story ->

 

June 18, 2021

WTAJ Interview for the Sideline Cancer 10th Annual Golf Tournament

BY: GRIFFITH FOUNDATION / No Comments

by: Tiffany Rizzo
Posted: Jun 18, 2021 / 09:05 AM EDT / Updated: Jun 18, 2021 / 09:05 AM EDT

“BLAIR COUNTY, Pa (WTAJ) — One local organization is “teeing off” today to help find a cure for pancreatic cancer.

Over the past 10 years, the Greg and Cathy Griffith Family Foundation have raised over $130,000 through their golf tournament at the Scotch Valley Country Club…”

Click here to read the rest of the article and watch the interview ->