Community Corner

Paddle Boarders Raise Funds for Moffitt

The second annual Paddle Against Cancer took place on Saturday morning with cancer survivor, Gene Evans, leading the way.

A slew of supporters gathered on Treasure Island to paddle board in either a three mile course or a seven mile course. Folks from Suncoast Surf Shop were on hand to rent out the paddle boards. The suggested donation to paddle was $25 and all proceeds were donated to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.

Last year's event, which was the first, raised $17,000. The original goal was $2,000. To say the pilot run was successful would be an understatement.

The event was organized by stage four kindey cancer survivor, Gene Evans. Evans was diagnosed in 2009 and has been cancer free for 16 months, now. 

After beating stage four kidney cancer, Evans was inspired to give back to the organization that had played a role in his survival. Evans said that Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa "saved" his life.

"I went in and I was terrified," remembered Evans. "They gave me hope."

Evans said that he expressed some worry about being limited in his activities. As an avid surfer, paddle boarder and all around athlete, Evans was in fear of having his favorite things taken away from him.

The team of doctors at Moffitt was confident and told Evans, "we got this."

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Four surgeries and two rounds of radiation later, Evans is as strong as ever. 

Paddle boarding played a vital role in Evans' success. He said that boarding 3-4 times per week combined with a positive attitude and the care from Moffitt helped him survive.

"I've been very diligent about staying healthy through the process," Evans said.

After the race, participants were invited to a pool party at . Raffles and silent auctions added even more funds to the Moffitt piggie bank.

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The first Paddle Against Cancer hosted about 40 paddle boarders in the race and another 100 at the after party. This year's event breeded around 140 paddlers and nearly 300 guests at the pool party.

Saturday's goal was to hit $15,000 in funds to donate to Moffitt. The event raised over $20,000 which pushed the bar even higher for next year.

Evans said that he hopes to reach those going through a similar process to let them know that they, too, can survive.

"If you keep the right attitude and you put the work in, there is some hope out there," Evans said with a smile. "It is not a complete death sentence."


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