During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Jessie Blake, fighting out of the Bodies by Perseverance.
Where are you from?
Roslindale, Massachusetts
Where’d you go to college?
Salve Regina University - Newport, RI
Did you play any sports growing up?
Basketball, cheerleading and running
What do you do for work?
I work for an advertising agency managing accounts and integrated production for health and wellness brands.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
Honestly, yes. I've always seen boxing as a great outlet for me. I love high-intensity workouts because they're an outlet for my energy and frustration aka "the east coast edge."
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
I've wanted to fight in Haymakers for Hope since May 2015 when I attended my first event to watch my boss fight. I was so inspired watching him train and raise money for Dana Farber - his transformation was amazing. I've been mentally preparing for 3 years and feel so grateful to finally have the opportunity to get my ass kicked!
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Cancer affected me at an early age. My dad was treated for prostate cancer with radiation when I was in the second grade. His treatment and recovery was so scary. I vividly remember standing outside his bedroom, unable to hug him because the residual radiation was too strong for children exposure. I am constantly inspired by the hope that a cure is near. Living in Boston exposed me to the seriously excellent and talented researchers and doctors at a young age. I am so confident in Dana Farber's capabilities and am thrilled to participate in an event that gives SO much.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Sauvignon Blanc. All of it.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I love to hike and camp which is why I moved to Colorado! I am constantly reading - I love business and self help books. I am also constantly consuming media and new ideas for work. I am training for my first marathon in November in New York!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
A handful of girls from high school. Okay, maybe more than a handful.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page here and wish her luck on Instagram! Best of luck, Jessie!