MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (SNN TV) — The man who does it all and is more tireless than a teenager, has written another book, but this one is about battling cancer, not battling on the hardcourt.
Dick Vitale, Hall of Fame broadcaster and V Foundation for Cancer Research Board Member, announced the release of his latest book, Until My Last Breath: Fighting Cancer with My Young Heroes, available for purchase on Amazon beginning March 6 (Shaquille O'Neal's birthday).
Autographed copies will also be available on dickvitale.com.
Copies of the book will also be availablle at numerous other locations beginning on March 19.
In the book, Vitale chronicles his own experiences with cancer and features the stories from his All-Courageous Team, the young cancer fighters who have inspired him at every step.
“Regardless of the health obstacles I faced in my own life over the last few years, my mission remains unchanged: continue fighting every single day for children with cancer,” said Vitale. “This book came about when I couldn’t speak, but knew I still needed to use my voice to support these kids. My All-Courageous Team has made me the proudest and most inspired coach on the planet. They are the true PTPers of this book.”
Vitale is a three-time cancer survivor who has achieved a record-breaking 45 seasons with ESPN.
“Dick is a champion for pediatric cancer research and will stop at nothing to ensure every child has the bright and healthy future they deserve,” said Shane Jacobson, CEO of the V Foundation. “He ignites a sense of passion in everyone he meets, and this book is a testament to how the children he has tirelessly advocated for have lifted him up through his own cancer experience.”
This book is an intimate look into Vitale’s family life, his cancer journeys, his All-Courageous Team and the strength he pulled from friends, family, colleagues, and his long-time friend and founder of the V Foundation for Cancer Research, the late Jim Valvano. This heartfelt story will resonate far beyond the sports world and remind readers of the power of community, family and positive thinking.
"Perhaps the best compliment you could pay forward would be to read the book with the same emotion and the same love that Dick has exhibited for these children,” said Hall of Fame Basketball Coach Mike Krzyzewski. “His huge heart comes through on every page. The character and strength of these praiseworthy young heroes and their remarkable families will shine even more.”
All proceeds from the book will benefit the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund.
The 19th annual Dick Vitale Gala is scheduled for May 3, 2024 in Sarasota at the Ritz Carlton Sarasota.
The annual gala has raised nearly $70 million towards pediatric cancer research.