During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VIII in Boston on May 17th. 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 Tom Galvin, fighting out of the Haverhill Downtown Boxing.
Where are you from?
Newbury, MA
Where’d you go to college?
Suffolk University
Did you play any sports growing up?
Growing up I played baseball and basketball. I always enjoyed staying active in my free time.
What do you do for work?
I work for a medical supply company doing outside sales.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
My family has always been big fans of boxing. I specifically remember being a little kid and watching the Peter Mcneely vs Mike Tyson fight at my Nana’s house. I always pictured myself fighting at some point but with life and work I didn’t think it would ever be a possibility. This opportunity with Haymakers is the perfect platform and aligned well with where I am in my life.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
In 2011 we lost my grandmother Helen Gale to multiple myeloma. Watching her go through her battle left everyone feeling pretty helpless. I grew up being taught to always try to protect your family but when it comes to cancer it doesn’t work like that. Haymakers gives me the chance to raise money and be a small part in the solution to a big problem.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Unfortunately I don’t know too many people who haven’t been affected by cancer in some way. Whether it is friends or family I have seen it impact people close to me. In 2016 I was lucky enough to became a parent. I think when that happens it makes you more empathetic to what other families have to go through. Being a parent and having to watch your child go through chemo is unimaginable to me. The fact that it is 2018 and this is still a reality for a lot of people is why I am doing this.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Free time with my family. Life is busy enough and adding the amount of training needed on top of everything is difficult. I am very lucky to have such a solid support system that is behind me through this whole process. A solid case could be made for whiskey too. Big fan of bourbon, however not a big fan of training after a night of bourbon.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Hobbies? I mentioned I have a 18 month old son, right? For the most part he keeps me on my toes when I am not training or working. When I can carve out some free time I like to play golf, go shooting, travel, and everything involving going out to eat and food.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
I’m going with my brothers on this one. I am sure there has been multiple times over the years where they have said to themselves “I’d love to punch him in the face”. Come fight night I know they will want me to win but not without catching a couple.
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Tom!