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Mike Andrews Continues to Support Jimmy Fund in Retirement, Reflects on 25 Years as Chairman

Zach Stoloff — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 20:41:13 +0000

Mike Andrews still intimately remembers the first time he got involved with The Jimmy Fund — and it wasn’t necessarily willingly.

Late before a game early in the season, Andrews was asked by former Jimmy Fund chairman Bill Koster to fill in for a teammate who came down with an injury, and spend some time with one of The Jimmy Fund’s 12-year-old patients. Andrews admits to being a bit “miffed” at the time, feeling he should be preparing for the game. However, he complied with the request, and that was the beginning of a relationship with the cancer-fighting charity that continues 46 years later.

“I talked to [the boy] a while, he was a great ballplayer,” recalled Andrews during the fifth inning of the Red Sox home opener. “He had sat out a year of Little League and was really looking forward to getting back next year. We talked for a while, took a picture, I wished him luck and he left. And then Bill Koster turned to me and said ‘I really appreciate you doing that, we just sent him home, there’s no more we can do for him. He’s not going to make it.’ That kind of gets your attention.”

One of the first things Andrews points to is just the sheer number of patients that The Jimmy Fund is now able to send home under better circumstances. When he began working with the organization after his retirement from baseball — Andrews spent eight seasons in Major League Baseball with the Red Sox, White Sox and Athletics — he estimates that Dana-Farber was able to “cure” about 50 percent of its patients. Nowadays, he estimates that number as something closer to 90 percent of people who are able to go home disease-free.

“If you look at the bottom line, when I started with The Jimmy Fund it was really kind of grass rootsy, not much money being generated,” said Andrews. “And now, today, there’s approximately $70 million a year that is raised under The Jimmy Fund name. And when you take that and say ‘What does that mean to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in a year?’ without it they wouldn’t be Dana-Farber the way they are today.”

After being involved as a player, and then beginning part-time after his career, Andrews took over as chairman of The Jimmy Fund in 1984. In 2009, after 25 years at the helm of the charity, Andrews finally retired, though it wasn’t an easy decision. However, Andrews continues on as an honorary trustee, and on Monday participated in pregame ceremonies where Jimmy Fund patients threw out the first pitches.

“She actually threw it to Jon Lester,” Andrews said of Karen, the adult patient he accompanied to the mound on Monday. “So I said to her ‘You know Lester is a survivor.’ And she said ‘Oh, I know, he had the same thing I did.’ So they met, and Jon of course gave her a hug and a ball, and it was good.”

Obviously Lester himself is a shining example that Jimmy Fund patients can look toward, but Andrews says the Sox southpaw remains humble about his role. However, Andrews is unequivocal about not only the positive impact that athletes can make on patients, but the impact that meeting these patients can have on the ballplayers, too.

“The [players] that do get involved, and it’s a lot of them, they get as much out of it as the kids do,” said Andrews. “I’ve had so many of them tell me ‘I’m glad I came over here, I was in a slump, or I wasn’t pitching well, and now I go what am I worried about compared to these kids?’ And it kind of lifts them, too.”

Though he’s years removed from an active role with The Jimmy Fund, Andrews speaks with the conviction of someone who’s still very much emotionally involved. And for all the great strides the organization has made, it’s clear that it’s still the unwavering search for a cure for cancer that continues to drive Andrews and everyone else involved. But, on Monday, it was an opportunity to step back, enjoy some baseball, and reflect on just how far The Jimmy Fund has come over the years.

After 60 years of a partnership between The Jimmy Fund and the Red Sox, the spirit of cooperation between the two is still much the same as when Ted Williams dedicated himself to the cause.

Jimmy Fund Chorus Performs During Red Sox Home Opener Pregame Ceremonies (Video)

NESN Video — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:39:39 +0000

The Jimmy Fund Chorus made their major league debut on Monday during the Red Sox home opener pregame ceremonies.

The chorus is comprised of current and former Dana-Farber patients, their family members and Dana-Farber staff and friends. The group was formed this year.

Watch their emotional performance of “Just One Person” in the video above.

Jimmy Fund Patients Make Annual Visit to Red Sox Spring Training (Video)

NESN Staff — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 16:40:26 +0000

It’s one of the Boston Red Sox’ most-cherished traditions.

Each year, the Sox welcome a group of Jimmy Fund patients to escape New England’s late-winter chill and head down to sunny Florida to join the team at JetBlue Park. This isn’t just some meet and greet, either, as the kids get to show off their hitting and fielding skills with the players while spending quality time getting to know the local nine.

Check out this year’s visit in the video below.

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Just a reminder that the annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon will run from Tuesday, Aug. 27 to Wednesday, Aug. 28 this year.

Will Middlebrooks, Jarrod Saltalamacchia Named 2013 Jimmy Fund Rally Against Cancer Spokeplayers

Doug Kyed — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 16:54:09 +0000

You can show your support for the Red Sox on Opening Day by participating in the Jimmy Fund’s Rally Against Cancer℠.

Red Sox fans can partner with their school or company to take part in the fundraiser. With a gift of $5 or more, fans can wear their favorite Red Sox gear to work or school on Monday, April 8 as Boston takes on the Baltimore Orioles in its home opener.

The school and business that raises the most money by April 8 at 3 p.m. will win a visit from Jimmy Fund Co-Captains Will Middlebrooks and Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Companies, colleges, universities and K-12 schools are eligible for the fundraiser. The winner has to be within a two-hour driving distance of Boston.

“It’s a fun way for different schools and professional organizations to come together to rally for the Red Sox and also for the Jimmy Fund at the same time,” Dana-Farber Senior Media Specialist Teresa Herbert said.

The contest has raised over $3 million the past seven years. This year’s goal is to raise over $550,000. So far, 141 teams have registered for this year’s fundraiser.

“On behalf of all patients, families and staff at Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund, we applaud all of our supporters and sincerely thank all of our Rally Against Cancer participants,” assistant director of corporate partnerships at Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund, Katie McGuirk said.

Middlebrooks and Saltalamacchia will be ambassadors for the Jimmy Fund all season. They will be raising awareness and building support for the cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as well as lending their support to Jimmy Fund events, visiting adult and pediatric clinics, thanking donors and more.

Past Rally Against Cancer spokesplayers include Daniel Bard, Tim Wakefield, Clay Buchholz, Jon Lester, Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis and Trot Nixon. For more information, or to register, visit RallyAgainstCancer.org.

Red Sox, Jimmy Fund to Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Partnership in 2013

NESN Staff — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:03:10 +0000

This year will include another season-long celebration around Fenway Park.

The Red Sox and the Jimmy Fund will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of their partnership in 2013. It’s the latest milestone in what has been a productive and storied relationship between the organization and the Boston-based charity.

Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino, manager John Farrell, third baseman Will Middlebrooks, Red Sox Spanish Beisbol Network play-by-play announcer Uri Berenguer, Dana-Farber president and CEO Edward J. Benz Jr., MD, as well as numerous Dana-Farber pediatric and adult patients and their families will celebrate the occasion at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston on Thursday.

The bond between the Red Sox and the Jimmy Fund is one that is not only unique, but it’s also one that strengthens every year.

Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@JohnBeattieNESN

Avalanna Routh Shows Charisma, Heartwarming Personality on ‘Today Show’ with Justin Bieber (Video)

NESN Staff — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 02:57:57 +0000

Jimmy Fund patient and inspiration to all, Avalanna Routh, passed away on Wednesday. The 6-year-old suffered from a severe case of brain cancer.

Routh, the Merrimac, Mass., native, had a major impact on the Jimmy Fund community and influenced many with her bubbly personality. She got to see one of her dreams come true as she developed a close relationship with pop star Justin Bieber, and eventually became known as "Mrs. Bieber."

The youngster wasn't one to miss an opportunity to let her spirit shine, and you can see that in the video above.

Our condolences go out to Avalanna's family during this extremely difficult time.

The Routh family has been working to raise awareness and money for researching ATR brain tumors. You can make a gift to the Jimmy Fund in Avalanna’s honor by going to jimmyfund.org.

Jimmy Fund Patient Avalanna Routh, A.K.A. ‘Mrs. Bieber,’ Loses Battle With Brain Cancer

John Beattie — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:39:32 +0000

Avalanna Routh – one of the many smiling faces of The Jimmy Fund — lost her battle with brain cancer on Wednesday.

The Merrimac, Mass., native, who was known by many as “Mrs. Bieber” because of her relationship with pop singer Justin Bieber, passed away at age 6.

The following message was sent out on her Twitter account just before 9 a.m. ET on Wednesday morning.

Our darling Avalanna went to Heaven this morning. Oh Avalanna, the brightest star – you took our hearts with you, our greatest Love;(

Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon Raises Incredible $3,205,132 in Two-Day Effort (Video)

NESN Staff — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Earlier on Wednesday, the Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon hit the $30 million mark over the course of its 11-time history.

However, during the 2012 two-day effort alone, $3,205,132 was raised in all, an incredible effort by the part of all the speakers who shared their stories, volunteers and, of course, those who donated.

As the Radio-Telethon wrapped up, Tom Caron and Co. took a look back at all the great moments that were shared throughout the course of the event. The Jimmy Fund is always taking donations, but this concentrated effort was truly special.

Check out the montage in the video above.

Jimmy Fund Hits $30 Million Mark Over History of Radio-Telethon (Video)

NESN Staff — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 02:49:36 +0000

Dale Arnold admits that in 2002, he wasn't sure how the Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon would be received.

Well, now, having been through the event 11 times, it's apparent that the response has been incredible, and, just as in baseball, the numbers say it all. On Wednesday, the Radio-Telethon hit the $30 million mark in total funds raised throughout those 11 sessions, a monumentous occasion for an organization which does so much to relieve people's suffering.

Watch the video above to see the announcement and how you can continue to help.

David Ortiz, Jarrod Saltalamacchia Proud to Be Associated With Jimmy Fund (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 21:40:15 +0000

David Ortiz and Jarrod Saltalamacchia do plenty of damage on the field, but their real contributions come outside the lines.

Ortiz and Saltalamacchia have been major charitable contributors within the Boston community. The Red Sox tandem is always looking for ways to help out, so both jumped at the opportunity to get involved with the Jimmy Fund upon arriving in Boston.

Check out the video above to hear more about why Ortiz and Saltalamacchia choose to be so active when it comes to charity work.

Lisa Scherber Describes Amazing Story of Todd Schwartz, Who Continues to Inspire Jimmy Fund Patients (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 21:04:15 +0000

Lisa Scherber, Director of Patient and Family Programs at the Jimmy Fund Clinic at Dana-Farber, is a huge reason for the success of the annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon. She can’t help but draw inspiration from Todd Schwartz.

Schwartz was a vibrant 19-year-old with an incredible sense of humor, and he touched countless lifes before his unfortunate passing as a result of cancer in 2002. Schwartz’s positive attitude, toughness and all-around amazing personality still shines, however, which is obvious when talking to those who knew him.

Watch the video above to hear Scherber describe Schwartz’s amazing story and lasting legacy.

Alex Kontos, Wife Emily Thrilled to Soon Add to Family, Thankful for Dana-Farber’s Efforts (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 19:35:19 +0000

You won’t find many people as vibrant and as outgoing as Alex Kontos and his wife, Emily. So when Alex was diagnosed with testicular cancer, the couple accepted the challenge head-on with the same happy-go-lucky attitude they’ve always had.

Now, Alex stands before us as a cancer survivor who is ready to become a father. Emily is 28 weeks pregnant, which is a thrill after all that they’ve been through.

Check out the video above to hear more about this amazing story.

Tim Wakefield Donates $10,000 to Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon in Honor of Johnny Pesky (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 16:18:00 +0000

Tim Wakefield‘s presence on the field was extremely important. Yet, it pales in comparison to what he’s meant to the city of Boston off the field.

Wakefield continued his generous ways on Wednesday, as he and his wife donated $10,000 as part of the annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon. The donation is just the latest in a long line of charitable contributions made by Wakefield, who said he’s donating in honor of the late Johnny Pesky.

Still, that doesn’t make the large donation any less special. From everyone, thank you, Wake.

Dylan McClorey’s Parents Discuss Son’s Emotional Cancer Battle, Confident He’ll Continue to Bounce Back (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 15:27:55 +0000

Dylan McClorey is just 3 years old, but he's already done a lifetime's worth of fighting.

McClorey was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma on Nov. 16, 2011. Since then, he's had some good days and some bad days, but one thing is certain: McClorey is just like any other kid, and he's someone who refuses to let cancer define him.

"Dylan the Villain," as his parents jokingly call him, still has plenty of fun, even causing a little bit of trouble – but not too much — along the way. Dylan's parents admit that life has often been difficult since the diagnosis, but they expect their son to continue to bounce back, just like he always has.

Check out the emotional video above to hear more.

Former Nurse Amy Vaughan Vows to Fight in Bout With Pancreatic Cancer (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 14:59:22 +0000

Having been a nurse at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Amy Vaughan knows more about her condition than the average patient. That’s something she admits is often tough, but don’t expect her to stop fighting any time soon.

Vaughan has battled hard since being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and she’s equipped with a fighter’s mindset — something she credits her surgeon for instilling inside her. The former nurse has remained optimistic, even through the occasional difficult days she endures.

Upon hearing her story, Vaughan’s toughness is undeniable. Her cheerful personality, however, is something you need no backstory to notice.

Check out Vaughan’s story in the video above.

Greg Primo Explains the Wonderful Care, Comfort Dana Farber Provides (Video)

NESN Staff — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 01:31:48 +0000

The Jimmy Fund Radio Telethon is in full swing and there are plenty of athletes, celebrities and survivors stopping by Fenway Park to share their story.

Greg Primo, a Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and myelodysplasia survivor, joined NESN’s Tom Caron, Dennis Eckersley and Peter Gammons on the Red Sox Gameday Live on Tuesday night to discuss his brutal battle with the disease as well as the unbelievable comfort provided by the Dana Farber staff.

Check out the video above to hear from Primo.

Larry Lucchino Reflects on Own Experiences With Dana-Farber, Considers Boston Residents Very Fortunate (Video)

NESN Staff — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 18:05:08 +0000

The annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon holds a special place in the hearts of those impacted by cancer, including Red Sox president and CEO Larry Lucchino.

Lucchino, a two-time cancer survivor, has experienced the Red Sox/Jimmy Fund partnership from both sides, and he couldn't be any more appreciative of the efforts of those working at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Diagnosed with cancer in 1985, Lucchino knows what it means to fight, fight and fight some more to get to the point where he could be considered a survivor. His success just goes to show that cancer hardly defines who a person is and who a person can be.

Check out the video above to hear Lucchino discuss his experiences during this year's Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon.

Jenny Dell, Jarrod Saltalamacchia Drop by Jimmy Fund Clinic to Put Smiles on Kids’ Faces (Video)

NESN Staff — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 17:46:39 +0000

Red Sox catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia and NESN's Jenny Dell are two busy people this time of year. You'll never catch them passing up an opportunity to visit the Jimmy Fund Clinic, though.

Saltalamacchia and Dell find it an honor to visit the kids at the clinic. The patients there have shown a ton of resilience in their respective battles with cancer, and are thus a source of inspiration for all, including Salty and Jenny.

Check out the video above to hear more about their visit to the clinic.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia Reminded of Real World Issues While Away From Baseball at Jimmy Fund Clinic (Video)

NESN Staff — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 17:25:59 +0000

Baseball in Boston often seems so important. But in comparison to other issues going on in the world, the sport is just a minor blip.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia understands that, but like any player going through the mental grind of a 162-game season, it often takes a reminder every now and then. Saltalamacchia received his reminder recently when he visited the Jimmy Fund Clinic.

While there, Saltalamacchia and NESN's Jenny Dell caught up with some kids who shared their amazing stories. It was quite the experience, to say the least, for the Red Sox catcher.

Check out the video above to learn more about the visit.

Patrice Bergeron, Other Bruins Used Memorable ‘Movember’ to Raise Awareness, Spread Cheer (Video)

NESN Staff — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 17:18:06 +0000

The Boston Bruins' 2011-12 season didn't end the way they had hoped, but it was still a very memorable campaign. The biggest moments, however, came off the ice.

Patrice Bergeron and Benoit Pouliot were among last year's B's who dropped by the Jimmy Fund Clinic to spread some cheer around the holidays. Their visit even coincided with the team's "Movember" movement, which helped raise awareness for prostate cancer and other men's health issues.

Check out the video above to see some highlights of their special visit.