During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, 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 Natalie Moore, fighting out of Nonantum Boxing Club.
Where are you from?
Bridgewater, MA
Where’d you go to college?
Massachusetts college of pharmacy and health sciences, Boston
Did you play any sports growing up?
Soccer, basketball, field hockey, softball, gymnastics, etc.
What do you do for work?
Diagnostic medical sonographer
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I always like to try new types of activities. I had taken a boxing class and really enjoyed it!
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
It’s a great cause. I have had family, friends, patients and even pets affected by cancer. It’s the least I can do. I hope it makes at least one person realize I am fighting for them and helps them through!
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Many of my family members have been affected by cancer. My cousin fought lymphoma, my grandfather passed away less than 3 months from being diagnosed with leukemia (AML), his wife, my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly thereafter. Both of my dogs just passed from gastrointestinal lymphoma and mast cell tumor. My father in law is fighting currently with cancer as well. I keep all these people I love in my thoughts and also keep the patients I see daily with me as motivation.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Time with my boyfriend. Going to the gym to spar late makes very little free time to see him but he is very supportive.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
We are being hikers and love to be outside every chance we get.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
That’s a tough one. I don’t think anyone is thrilled about the idea. I think I’m the only one that’s ok with it but the goal is to not get punched in the face!
Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Natalie!