In the first game of the 2007 Buffalo Bills season, tight end Kevin Everett lie face down on the field. Unable to move his arms or legs, the only movement in his body came from the struggle to take in oxygen. Everett had sustained a broken neck and spinal damage attempting to tackle a kick returner. At the hospital, doctors immediately assessed the situation and the idea that Everett would never again walk seemed certain. But Everett didn't allow the prognosis to become his destiny, and over the next few months he worked relentlessly, defying the odds and doctors. Just ten months after the injury, Kevin Everett walked on to the stage at the 2008 ESPYS to receive the Jimmy V Perseverance Award. His success in recovery demonstrated every attribute the Jimmy V award stands for and he personifies the words spoken by Jim Valvano some 15 years ago - "Don't give up, don't ever give up."®
V Foundation Established 1993 - DONATE NOW
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and ESPN commentator. Since 1993, The Foundation has raised more than $100 million to fund cancer research grants nationwide. It awards 100 percent of all direct cash donations and net proceeds of events directly to cancer research and related programs. Administrative and fundraising expenses are paid by the Foundation's endowment. The Foundation awards grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a scientific advisory board. For more information on The V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit www.jimmyv.org or call 1-800-4JimmyV.
Jimmy V Perseverance Award
The Jimmy V Perseverance Award was named after and inspired by the late Jimmy Valvano who became the award's raison d'être at the 1993 ESPYS. While battling cancer, Jim Valvano gave an emotional acceptance speech which included his famous words "Don't Give Up . . . Don't Ever Give Up!"®. This was Jimmy V's advice to anyone anywhere facing adversity. Valvano passed away less than 2 months later, but his words were never forgotten. The Jimmy V Award is given to a deserving member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through physical perseverance and determination. In 2007, Women's College basketball coach Kay Yow became the very first recipient of the Jimmy V award.