Anthony Rizzo Announces 11th Annual Walk-Off For Cancer

photo from arizzofoundation.org

For his 11th year in a row, MLB All-Star, World Champion, and New York Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo will be hosting his annual Walk-Off for Cancer - a 5K walk to raise money for cancer patients and their families.

Anthony Rizzo always dreamed of playing professional baseball. In 2007, at the age of 17, Rizzo was drafted straight out of high school by the Boston Red Sox. His dreams were becoming a reality, but had to be paused when he was presented with devastating news. He was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

In his biography on his foundation's website, he expresses that, "this was obviously terrible news for me personally, but it was even more grueling for my family because my Grandma was facing her own battle with breast cancer at the very same time".

Rizzo knew he had to stay strong for his family, and came to realize that "cancer is so much more than individual hardship, but rather a battle that the whole family must face together". With his determination to stay strong and 6 months undergoing chemotherapy treatment, he was presented with big news from his doctor that he is in remission.

In 2012, Rizzo prompted himself to use his platform as an MLB All-Star to help cancer patients and their families going through adversity. He accomplishes this year after year by raising money through events such as his annual walk-off for cancer, homerun challenges, and his laugh-off for cancer.

His events prove to be a success; In 2020, his 9th annual walk-off for cancer raised more than $850,000; the year prior, $1.35 million dollars was raised.

His 11th annual Walk-Off For Cancer takes place on December 3rd, 2022 in his hometown Parkland, Florida. The details in the description under this event write that there will be an in-person option and a virtual option, making it possible for anyone who would like to make a positive difference in the lives of families who need it most.

Visit the foundation's website for more information about the foundation, Anthony Rizzo's mission, and for information about upcoming and past events.