The Clinton High School (Clinton, NY) basketball teams successfully hosted their “Purple-out for Pancreatic Cancer” fundraiser event on February 15th. The event, aimed at raising funds for pancreatic cancer research and patient aid through the support of the non-profit organization, Project Purple, drew a significant turnout from the community.
Both the Girls’ and Boys’ teams from Clinton High School faced off against Sherburne-Earlville High School in thrilling basketball matchups. Attendees who purchased tickets at the door received a free purple t-shirt, contributing to a powerful “purple-out” atmosphere in solidarity with those affected by pancreatic cancer.
All proceeds from ticket sales and additional donations directly supported Project Purple, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial aid and hope to individuals battling pancreatic cancer, as well as funding critical research for early detection and treatment. The teams and fans were able to band together to raise over $2,000.
Sam Constantino, a Clinton resident and lifelong friend of Clinton Boys Basketball Coach, Michael Hayduk, is currently battling pancreatic cancer. He was inspired and moved by Coach Hayduk’s idea to host this “Purple-out” and expressed his gratitude in a Facebook post.
“This year, when their charity for cancer games came up, I was humbled and honored when they wanted to do it for Project Purple and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness. Even typing this, I may or may not be choking up,” Constantino wrote. “So a great big thank you to the Hayduk family. I promised we would not let this disease get bypassed, no matter if this helps me or not to get better. If we can help just one person detect Pancreatic cancer sooner so they have a chance, we’ve won.”
Coach Hayduk expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a significant cause, emphasizing the importance of making a difference in the lives of those affected by pancreatic cancer. The event not only showcased competitive basketball but also brought the community together to support the efforts of Project Purple in combating this disease.
“The bigger goal off the court is to just provide awareness of this very aggressive cancer – to provide awareness for both the charity and the illness itself,” Hayduk said in an interview with Utica’s WKTV, “We’re going to hopefully spread the word about early detection and care.”
If you’re inspired by these amazing student-athletes and want to get involved in the fight against pancreatic cancer, check out our “Ways To Give” page to see how you can get involved.
Do you have an idea for a Project Purple event you would like to host? Visit “Host an Event”.
