In this issue
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Creating a world with more birthdays

Q. & A. with Monica Collins

Tom Izzo awarded Coaches vs. Cancer 2009 Champion Award

Meet your researcher: Dr. Paul Helft

Volunteer Richard Jaeger: Gearing up for Michigan Celebration at the State Capitol

Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection Quiz
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VOICES photo and video contest!

VOICES in the kitchen

IT Department visits the Hope Lodge

Tom Izzo awarded Coaches vs. Cancer 2009 Champion Award
Michigan State men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo,
is the 2009 recipient of the Coaches vs. Cancer Champion Award, presented annually to a college coach who has been vigorously engaged in the program’s fundraising, education and promotional initiatives, and has demonstrated leadership in the fight to save lives from cancer.  

Coaches vs. Cancer is a collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) that empowers coaches, their teams, and communities to join the fight against cancer.
           
Izzo received the Champion Award at the 2009 NABC Guardians of the Game Awards Show on Sunday, April 5 in Detroit – site of this year’s Final Four.

Izzo and his wife, Lupe, are actively involved with Coaches vs. Cancer and have raised significant funds to support the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives. Their work has been instrumental in promoting cancer awareness throughout Michigan.

They have engaged the participation of worksites and MSU basketball fans across the state in a “Wear Your Sneakers to Work Day” fundraising effort, coinciding with Coaches vs. Cancer’s annual Suits and Sneakers awareness weekend – a nationwide event in which coaches wear sneakers with their game attire to raise awareness about the importance nutrition and physical activity play in reducing personal cancer risk.

On May 6, the Izzos performed in a cabaret-style show of song, dance, and inspiration called Izzo Goes to Broadway at Michigan State’s Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Celebrating the skill of athletics and the passion of the arts, the show will benefit the American Cancer Society.

“The American Cancer Society, in conjunction with the NABC, is pleased to recognize Coach Izzo for his outstanding work with Coaches vs. Cancer. He is a true leader for the Spartans and for the Coaches vs. Cancer team, and he and his wife demonstrate their commitment to the Society’s lifesaving work with creativity and dedication every chance they get,” said Van Velsor Wolf, 2008-09 volunteer chair, American Cancer Society National Board of Directors.

“Coach Izzo is a wonderful ally as we work together to save lives by helping people stay well, helping people get well, finding cures, and fighting back.”
 
For more information on Coaches vs. Cancer, call your American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org/coaches.