Much like his rookie campaign with the New York Jets, quarterback Mark Sanchez came up just short of the big dance, but still has something to be proud of. He walked away from the Pepsi Refresh challenge with a sizeable grant for his charity, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Sanchez competed against Superbowl MVP and New Orleans Saints Quarterback Brew Brees as well as Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware for a $100,000 grant, the top prize. Each of the players selected a charity and fans voted on which charity should get the grant. Brees won the big prize while Sanchez and Ware were awarded $25,000 grants for their charities.
At the time the contest was announced, Sanchez said he wanted to “help establish a much needed, nationwide educational program with JDRF to ensure that the warning signs of Type 1 diabetes will become household knowledge for medical personnel, parents, teachers, and friends,” said Sanchez. “Then, a quick and accurate diagnosis can be made and proper treatment given before it results in a life threatening situation.” Symptoms for Type 1 diabetes can be mistaken for common illnesses, such as the flu, and if left untreated, even over a very short timeframe, can be deadly.
Brees said the funds would be used to help renovate rooms at the American Cancer Society Patrick F. Taylor Lodge, which helps the families affected by cancer have a more comfortable stay. Ware raised funds for Jonathan’s Place, which helps to create a safe environment for abused, abandoned and neglected kids.
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