Valentine's Day is symbolic of love, hearts, and joy. A day for us to be with those we love and hold dear. Unfortunately, that is not the case for my best friend Kate.
On Valentine's Day, February 14, 2017, Kate's father Rich Gilooly passed away suddenly from a massive heart attack - an unexpected cardiac event. Rich was only 38 years old when he died. Rich left behind a loving wife of 13 years, Kristin, and two little girls who adored him, Emma and Kate. Emma and Kate were 10 and 7, respectively, when their dad passed away.
Rich was a well-known legend in the basketball world?a remarkable player for Catholic Central High School and Union College. Rich was an even more impactful coach. He served countless student athletes, taking the position of head coach, to inspire players to reach their highest potential at Hudson Valley Community College, Shalmont High School, and Catholic Central High School, Bishop Maginn, and as an assistant coach at RPI.
As someone who proudly shares the court with Coach Gilooly's #1 player - his daughter Kate Gilooly, my best friend and teammate- I know the legacy he has left behind. I see it firsthand in every basket she hits, every shot she blocks, every rebound she grabs, and especially in every charge she takes.
As someone who remains under the care of a fantastic physician at Boston Children's Hospital, together we keep an eye out for symptoms of hypertension, a potential risk post my transplant surgery. Because of my own journey, I am more aware of the importance of cardiac education and healthy choices as a student athlete.
With a significant increase in cardiac events among young, physically fit student athletes, we all need to be aware of the warning signs and how to prepare as teammates, coaches, and referees.
Through the American Heart Association as a Leader of Impact, I am hoping to raise funds to allow students, so that one day, every high school graduate will have their CPR Certification and have the necessary AED training.
I hope you will support me in this effort. With Peter Semenza being recognized as the recipient of the Donald LedDuke Award at this year's Heart Ball and St. Peter's Hospital SVP Kim Baker Chairing the Ball, there are so many wonderful reasons to get involved.
Most importantly, I hope you can make a donation so when I am on the court, my fellow teammates and opponents can enjoy the sport they love because we should always have each other's backs, and hearts!
Are you with me in making a real impact on the health of our community? Click the Donate button to support the American Heart Association today. Fundraising is open from September 18th at 9:00 am until November 5th at 9:00 pm.