The Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer, a motorcycle ride to benefit cancer patients and families throughout northeastern Wisconsin, presented checks totaling $104,000 to seven local cancer support organizations Tuesday at Lambeau Field. The donation total is a single-year record for the cruise.
The funds distributed were raised during the 2013 Cruise for Cancer and other related events. Since its inception, the cruise and related efforts have raised nearly $760,000 for the cause.
Jerry Parins, the Packers' former director of security and organizer of the event, distributed money to the following organizations: Angel Classic Inc.(Patient and Family Assistance), Bellin Health Foundation Inc. (Patient Assistance Fund), Fox Valley Brain Tumor Coalition (Patient and Family Support) St. Mary's Hospital (A Woman's Place), St. Vincent Hospital (Child Life Program), St. Vincent Hospital (Compassionate Care Fund) and Unity Limited Partnership (End-Of-Life Specialized Education Program).
Diagnosed with cancer in 2003, Parins was strengthened during his journey by the support he received from his family and friends, and while witnessing families who also were dealing with the effects of the disease. At the time, Parins pledged to help other families dealing with cancer, and thus the Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer ride was born.
In recent years, Parins has worked with local organizations to raise money for the cause at events related to the cruise. Those events include an annual fundraiser at the Drift Inn in Green Bay, a golf outing at McCauslin Brook Golf Course in Lakewood, Wis., and an annual bowling fundraiser at Wally's Bowling Alley in Seymour, Wis.
Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy attended the event and assisted Parins with the presentation.
"The Packers are proud of Jerry and all of the work that he has done to raise awareness and money for local cancer-related organizations," said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. "His efforts this year raised a single-year record total, which is a testament to the dedication in growing this event year after year."
Please visit www.packers.com and www.cruiseforcancer.org for more information.
