For most Lakers fans, Opening Night was a statement game, a reinforcement that the Lakers still run Los Angeles. But, for 20 breast cancer survivors, Tuesday night’s home opener meant much much more.
“When I received the call from Mark Pilon, Director of Komen LA asking me if I am able to attend the Lakers opening game thanks to Jordan Hill, Of course I accepted,” Jennifer Wilson, a breast cancer survivor and ambassador for Susan G. Komen, told this website. “I would have to say that my experience last night really caused me to see that as a breast cancer survivor, I know that I am alive today to be able to be a blessing to others, as Jordan has been to us. My night was filled with complete joy!”
Lakers forward Jordan Hill, who is now an ambassador for Susan G. Komen Los Angeles, a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting breast cancer, purchased 20 tickets to the Lakers vs. Clippers opening night game for breast cancer survivors. After losing his mom to breast cancer at just three years old, his new position as an ambassador for this cause is truly close to his heart.
“I lost my mom when I was three, and they really didn’t have that much technology and medication back then, but right now, everybody keep donating, keep doing things to make it good and there will be a lot of survivors.”
A group of 20 smiling fans stuck out in their pink shirts Tuesday night, as they watched Hill knock down 12 points and grab eight rebounds in the Lakers 116-103 win over the Clippers. After the game, Hill was quick to throw on a pink shirt and a humble smile and meet with the survivors who attended the game.
“My initial reaction when meeting Jordan was humility because I saw how humble he is. Then right after that was the burst of wanting to congratulate him. It was so amazing to welcome Jordan as a Susan G. Komen ambassador, ‘we family now'” – Jennifer Wilson
“BEAR DOWN ARIZONA!!!! I am a wildcat as well. So it was great to meet Jordan. He looked great in his pink shirt and has a wonderful and kind heart. He took pictures with everyone and did it all with a smile on his face. I am proud to have him as an ambassador for SGKLA!” – Kimberly Williams
Susan G. Komen for the Cure has invested almost $2 billion in fulfilling their mission to end breast cancer in the U.S. and throughout the world. The foundation also gives survivors an incredible support group, a family of survivors to those affected by breast cancer.
“Survivor to me means a second chance. A second chance to get it right this time and make this one count. I made it through the storm and now I have the strength I need to fullfill my lifes purpose. Beacause of what I endured going through the breast cancer treatments I am able to speak to people all over and bring awareness to them about the importance of knowing thier bodies, taking care of their bodies, as well as the importance of making wise choices about seeking solid resources such as Susan G. Komen.” – Jennifer Wilson
For more on Susan G. Komen for the Cure and to support this cause, head over to komen.org.