NCCF was honored to be chosen as the recipient of the proceeds from this year’s Icing Lymphoma event held in Rockville, MD on June 28, 2014. Icing Lymphoma is a fundraising group that raises money to benefit charities that support Lymphoma and other cancer research, as well as young adult cancer patients and their families. The group was started by Curtis McIntyre and his friends after Curtis was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma in 2011.
Curtis loved sports, and playing ice hockey was one of his passions. He was a member of the inaugural hockey team at the University of Tampa. Although he was forced to take a leave of absence from school to return home for treatment, he was eventually able to return to school and the hockey team. Curtis also made it his mission to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, organizing several fundraisers with his teammates. Unfortunately, Curtis relapsed and a bone marrow transplant was not successful. Despite his ongoing treatment, Curtis and his friends and family worked together to plan the first Icing Lymphoma event near his hometown of Olney, MD. Sadly, Curtis passed away shortly before the first event in April 2012.
This year’s fundraising activities, which included a poker tournament and happy hour at Tommy Joe’s in Bethesda, culminated in a hockey game on June 28, 2014 where friends and family gathered to celebrate Curtis’ legacy and play the game he loved. As a result of their efforts, over $6,000 was raised for NCCF. The proceeds went directly to fund six scholarships for young adult cancer survivors who have shown a commitment to athletics and education, and serve as inspiration to others through their positive attitude and love of life.
Curtis’ passion was helping other people and making every day count. He is remembered for his positive attitude, bravery, and optimism throughout his rigorous battle with Lymphoma. His legacy as a humble warrior who wanted nothing more than to see others enjoying life to the fullest continues on through Icing Lymphoma. NCCF is humbled to be the recipient of the generosity of Curtis’ legacy of selflessness and concern for others.