Du Quoin High School athletes 'lifting against cancer' Monday, July 29

Head football coach Al Martin, his assistants and athletes at the Du Quoin High School will be doing some heavy lifting for a good cause on Monday, July 29.

Pledges of a penny a pound, a nickel a pound or a dime a pound will go a long way toward Southern Illinois' fight against cancer, said Martin as the pledge-taking begins.

Athletes are taking pledges for an average of up to 800 pounds during four lifts in the high school weight room on the day of the event.

This is only the latest in a string of community events the students are involved in each year. "Our students collect canned goods for the food pantry, participate in the blood drives. The National Honor Society spends countless hours volunteering. Studies show that students who volunteer in social organizations have higher grade point averages," said Martin.

"I have time right now to do this and I want to help," said Martin, a class act both on and off the field. "Otherwise, our athletes are very busy. They work from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.--10 to 12 hours a day

He is partnering with Conner James of the American Cancer Society who helps organize the local Relay for Life each year. Martin said Southern Illinois has higher cancer rates, in part, because of lower income levels and less attention in some families to healthcare, obesity and access to cheaper cigarettes by driving across state lines.

Martin said the proceeds will be used for research at SIU, a program to provide 250 free colonostomies and Project Hope.

"The average athlete will lift 800 pounds in four lifts. For a penny a pound you will be pledging up to $8; for 2 cents a pound up to $16; for a nickel a pound up to $40 and for a dime a pound up to $80."

Some athletes are still in need of sponsors. If you are willing to sponsor one of these athletes please call Al Martin at (618) 542-8139 or (618) 534-5227.