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- c/o @Rachel__Nichols
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- c/o @Rachel__Nichols
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By now, most NFL fans have heard news of the Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano being diagnosed with leukemia. However, what many fans across the league may not know is that if it weren't for Chuck Pagano's wife Tina Pagano, the diagnosis may have been significantly delayed.
When Colts owner Jim Irsay addressed Pagano's illness and subsequent time away from the team, he specifically mentioned Tina's involvement in forcing the head coach to get checked out. Irsay said,
"Coach was feeling some fatigue over the last few weeks, and noticed some bruising on his body that he first thought could have been from contact on the field, or coaching, or playing with his grandkids. Through talking to his wife, Tina, she said, 'You need to get that checked out, because the bruising appears to be more and more prominent.' We had the coach get fully evaluated, and the conclusion was that he did have leukemia.
The Colts and entire Indianapolis community have rallied behind the Pagano's through this difficult journey. Most notably, a "Chuckstrong," campaign has begun where Livestrong-inspired merchandise is being sold bearing the Chuckstrong motto with all proceeds to be donated to Leukemia research and foundations.
Chuck and Tina Pagano have three daughters, Tara, Taylor and Tori, and two grandchildren, Avery and Addison (daughters to Tina).
10.8.2012
Tina and Family: All of us from Dr Effrens office Roseanne ,Barbara,and Donna(were all still here)Just to let you know your in our prayers.
Best of luck to you.You have a beautiful Family.
Roseanne Stevens
11.8.2012
To the Pagnano's
Hi! I was diagnosed with AML on March 19, 1999. I was 42 years old. I had two consolidation chemos.. Followed by a Stem cell transplant at Karmanos in Detroit. It has been almost 14 years for me. I am doing very good.
I just wanted to let you know that it is a rough road that takes time. I'm sure your husband is a fighter he will do good. I am a fighter too. Never quit fighting!
I will be praying for a fast recovery and healing! If you want to talk to me please e-mail me.
Blessings, Nancy
1.8.2013
Hi Tina
I am sure you are inundated with kind notes but I wanted to tell you I know what the strength of a faithful spouse means during such a challenging trial. I want to say congratulations to you and Chuck for beating this trial! Your husbands story and spirit are inspiring, please pass along me thanks to him for giving me encouragement to continue with my passions.
I recently had two people that I was close to diagnosed with cancer and was faced with that empty feeling of, I want to do something but I don't know how to help. Well, I figured it out and it has sparked a new passion. My day job is selling medical supplies and was was able to put a simple clinical care package together for these friends. Things like hospital grade hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes, gloves and face masks for loved ones coming to visit. It was very well received and it turns out that there is nothing like this.
The idea has started to take shape and I have 10+ people wanting to volunteer to help with the project. So I am in the process of starting a non-profit to formalize everything. The idea will be for people to be able to go to a website and send a care package to someone whether they can afford to contribute financially or not.
All that said, Chuck gave me inspiration to keep pushing to start the non-profit. I would love the opportunity to speak with you or Chuck regarding this project. Please email me if this would be possible.
God Bless,
Ryan
3.11.2013
I am a cancer survivor and know a young man that has recently recieved the same diagnosis as your husband. You and he have been such an inspiration to many. I was wanting to send a message to Chuck but haven't had any luck. Thank you for all that you two are doing.
I would like to have Chuck send a message to this young man but do not want to put the information here. If you or Chuck could email me, I would give his phone/address. He is a christian and loves the Lord. But, as you know, this is a very scary time.
Your family are in my thoughts and prayers often. Wishing you and family many blessings.
Sheila Dodds