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KDI Fight Club is the Foundation's campaign to increase involvement and funds for American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
The Foundation will annually induct an honorary member of the community into the KDI Fight Club at Pink Ball.
Read about our 2023 recipient, Juan Namnun, a male breast cancer survivor.
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There are 2 additional ways to become a KDI Fight Club Member.
#1: WALKER
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#2: DONATE
Visit the KDI Fighters' Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Team Page!
Juan Namnun, a devoted husband, father, teacher, and baseball coach, had his life take an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with male breast cancer at 46. As a dedicated educator and coach, Juan's journey from diagnosis to recovery became a source of inspiration and advocacy.
Juan had spent over 20 years shaping young minds and coaching baseball locally at Frankford High School, sharing his life with his high school sweetheart, Lena, and raising three remarkable boys.
The turning point came when Juan discovered a lump in his chest while relaxing by the pool. Prompted by Lena's intuition, they sought immediate medical advice. The diagnosis was startling: Juan was part of the rare 1% of men with breast cancer. This ironic twist placed him in a unique position to raise awareness about the disease.
Their journey involved extensive research as they navigated the challenges of male breast cancer, uncovering the scarcity of information available. Juan became a beacon of knowledge for others on this unfamiliar path.
The seriousness of the situation became clear during a double mastectomy when a second tumor was found. Fortunately, timing had been on Juan's side.
Just before Christmas, Juan received the gift of remission from his oncologist. He eagerly returned to coaching baseball, supported by his team's unwavering encouragement. His remarkable journey gained national attention, and Juan became an advocate for male breast cancer awareness.
Juan's story serves as a powerful reminder: breast cancer knows no gender, and awareness is crucial for prevention and survival.
Congratulations again, Juan, on being this year's recipient! [Read Juan's complete story here.]
We were thrilled to announce Juan as this year's KDI Fight Club inductee. When we learned about his inspiring journey through our friends at the American Cancer Society, we were immediately struck by the alignment between Juan's story, his mission, and our "why." Juan's unwavering passion for thriving and his partnership with ACS in the fight against breast cancer, with a crucial message that men are also affected, deeply resonated with us.
Not only is Juan a powerful advocate, but he is also an exceptional communicator who effortlessly connects with his everyone he meets. His relatability and the love and admiration he receives from his students, colleagues, friends, and family make him the perfect choice for this honor. We couldn't have asked for a more deserving individual to join the ranks of the KDI Fight Club. We were so proud to honor him.
Veronica shared her experience as a breast cancer survivor with KDI Cares. Board member Crystal Manning conveyed those words at the 2022 Pink Ball dinner prior to announcing her as the 2022 Honoree:
"Feeling a lump, which I first thought I could put off until I was “less busy” led to a whirlwind of tests, imaging and biopsies. Waiting on the test results, hearing “you have cancer” definitely floored me. I am youngest of nine, 6 sisters, my mother 88, my grandmothers living to 89 & 92 how could it be that I have breast cancer with no family history?? I learned it can happen to anyone.
When life throws you a curveball, you have to hit it out of the park. There was no way to know the outcome when this journey started. Fear of the unknown was there & still rears its ugly head sometimes, but I am grateful. Grateful the people that were/are there for me. Grateful for my doctors/team. Grateful for the American Cancer Society but most of all grateful to be celebrating 10 years cancer free this November and being here to meet my beautiful granddaughter, Edie Margot. I know not everyone’s path leads where mine did."
Congratulations again on being this year's recipient and on your 10 year milestone, Veronica! You are a true warrior and an inspiration. We are honored to have you as our first inductee.
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PINK BALL 6 | September 18, 2024
Ramblewood Country Club | Mt. Laurel, NJ
Join us for a day of coming together, uniting for a cause, and showing that sheer numbers and determination can make a difference in our local community. All PINK BALL proceeds benefit Making Strides of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.