When Jared Lindwall’s doctor diagnosed him with glioblastoma, the most common type of malignant brain tumor among adults, they only gave him 14 months to live. Lindwall would live three-and-a-half years before succumbing to the disease in January 2018.
Lindwall was one of the first My Hometown Heroes’ board members and a catalyst in the partnership with Euphotoria: Photography for a Purpose event. He once told founder and executive director, Danny Heinsohn, that one day he’d like to start his own foundation, but until he figured out what that was, he’d like to help out My Hometown Heroes.
“So far, that conversation with Jared was a catalyst for awarding an additional $20,000 in scholarships since 2016,” said Heinsohn.
My Hometown Heroes is a 501(c)3 organization designed to provide scholarships for young adult cancer survivors between the ages of 17 and 39. Every year there are 70,000 young adults between the ages of 15 and 39 who are diagnosed with cancer. It's one of the most overlooked and underserved populations in our country today.
“Our mission is to financially assist and recognize these amazing individuals who are pursuing a college education,” said Heinsohn. “Through community outreach, collaboration, and creativity we inspire with stories of hope and progress.”
My Hometown Heroes’ Legacy Bocce Day in Memory of Jared Lindwall is a fundraising event aligned with the organization’s mission of bridging the gap between cancer and college. Set for Wednesday, Oct. 24 from 5-8 p.m. at Bundox Bocce inside the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel, the event features appetizers, bocce play and music for $25.
“It’s a way to remember Jared and those who have lost the battle to cancer,” said Heinsohn. “Jared lived his life with vibrancy and positivity. This will be a fun and inspiring event fitting of his memory. We invite folks to come out and have a great time – whether they knew Jared or not.”
Lane sponsorships are also available. For tickets or more information, visit www.myhometownheroes.org/bocce18.
My Hometown Heroes contributed to this report
