Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center in Washington and the NFL Players Association have selected ESPN sports anchor Stuart Scott as the recipient of its annual award. Scott will receive the NFL Players Association Georgetown Lombardi Award during the 28th Annual Lombardi Gala on Sat., Oct. 18, in Washington.
The NFL Players Association Georgetown Lombardi Award was established to honor a leader in the sports industry whose life and family have been touched by cancer, and who encourages cancer research, prevention and treatment through awareness and philanthropy. The connection between the NFL Players Association and Georgetown Lombardi has grown out of a shared connection to the legacy of legendary NFL coach Vince Lombardi, who was treated for cancer at Georgetown University Hospital before succumbing to the disease in 1970. Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center is named in his memory.
DeMaurice F. Smith, executive director of the NFL Players Association, is serving as the honorary chair of the Lombardi Gala for the fifth year.
“On behalf of the NFL Players Association, I congratulate Stuart on this award, and thank him for demonstrating such undeniable courage, perseverance and class in his seven-year fight against cancer,” Smith says.
Scott was diagnosed with appendiceal cancer in 2007.
“Every day, I’m reminded that our life’s journey is really about the people who touch us,” Scott said during his acceptance speechfor the Jimmy V Perseverance Award presented this summer at The ESPYS, an awards ceremony hosted by ESPN to honor the top names in sports.
Scott described a downturn in his cancer battle that landed him in the hospital for a week with liver complications, kidney failure and four surgeries. Despite his challenges, his mantra is living life to the fullest..
“When you die, that does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live and the manner in which you live,” Scott said.
“Stuart captures the spirit of so many of our patients and has been an inspiration to those of us who are dealing with this insidious disease,” says Louis M. Weiner, MD, director of Georgetown Lombardi. “As a public figure, millions watch Stuart’s every move. I am sure he draws inspiration from their overwhelming support. But like everyone who deals with cancer on a daily basis, he is intensely aware of the most important parts of his life – his family and friends.” When he speaks, he does so for all of us.”
The ESPN SportsCenter anchor says he has loved his job of 21 years, but that it’s his two young daughters, Taelor and Sydni, who bring him constant inspiration and joy, as well as his girlfriend, Kristin, who has been by his side as he continues his courageous fight.
Vince Lombardi II, Coach Lombardi’s grandson, will join Smith in presenting the award to Scott.
The 28th Annual Lombardi Gala is open to the public and tickets are on sale now. The black-tie dinner and dance begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception, silent auction and a popular annual raffle of a new 2015 Lexus IS 350 F Sport. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Gala go to Georgetown Lombardi for cancer research, education and treatment. For more information, visit Lombardi.georgetown.edu/gala.
