Combating cancer and recognizing the steadfastness of educators were at the heart of two local sporting events this weekend. In an emotional pre-game ceremony, the Arizona Cardinals celebrated cancer survivors, including a Valley couple at the forefront of advocating for early screening and support for those battling the disease. Rhonda Cagle, who is nine years cancer-free after being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, shared her story of determination and gratitude. In a statement obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix, she expressed her appreciation for her medical team and her husband, Lorenzo, who is currently fighting prostate cancer. "To be here today, to be part of making these memories and having these moments, I'm incredibly grateful for my medical team, my husband, but I'm also grateful for Cigna Healthcare and the Cardinals for bringing such attention to the fact that early detection saves lives," she said.
Meanwhile, the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) marked their annual Pink Out game, promoting breast cancer awareness and honoring both survivors and those currently facing the disease. The football team has never lost a Pink Out game, and they aimed to extend that streak while supporting local heroes in their fight against cancer, according to the event details posted by UIW Cardinals. As part of the event, fans, coaches, and players were encouraged to don pink attire, with the first 500 attendees receiving complimentary Pink Out T-shirts. The game, also noting the contribution of educators, offered discounted tickets to teachers in recognition of their role in shaping the future.
Lorenzo Cagle, honored alongside his wife at the Cardinals game, highlighted the importance of early detection. "I just thank the NFL, Cardinals and Cigna for putting a strong face on cancer prevention," Lorenzo Cagle told FOX 10 Phoenix. He shared his experience with consistent health screenings that led to an early prostate cancer diagnosis, underscoring the campaign run with Cigna Health and the American Cancer Society for preventative cancer screenings. Rhonda Cagle added, "There is another side to the story, and the only way to get there is get through it," advocating for resilience and the significance of support systems in the journey through cancer.
In addition to celebrating survivors and those fighting cancer, UIW also shone a light on the unsung heroes in our communities during the Pink Out game. Educators were celebrated for their daily contributions, with UIW offering a special discount to local public school teachers to join the game at Benson Stadium. This gesture, perhaps more understated than the sea of pink supporters in the stands, aimed to acknowledge the pivotal role teachers play outside the limelight. "When local heroes come to mind, many overlook some of our neighbors in the San Antonio community, such as public educators," UIW highlighted in their announcement. The intertwining of cancer awareness and the celebration of educators embodied a spirit of communal support and recognition of varied forms of courage in San Antonio.
