During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Hope NYC in NYC on November 15th. 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 Emily Bromley, fighting out of Gotham Gym in New York City.
Where are you from?
San Diego, CA
Where did you go to college?
UC Berkeley (go bears !!!)
Did you play any sports growing up?
Swimming, Basketball, Water Polo
What do you do for work?
I manage overall relationships with broadcast and cable networks for a TV ad technology company called FreeWheel.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I'll start with the second question first...definitely not. But isn't that the point? I'm in a phase of life right now where I think it's important to lean into fear of the unknown and play to my strengths. This probably sounds cheesy, but boxing is forcing me to commit to being courageous, and I like that.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
I thought if I did this I might come out of it looking like Gigi Hadid - but getting punched in the face might prevent that from happening.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
I think cancer affects nearly everyone in some way - whether it happens to family, family friends, colleagues, friends, or friends of friends. My grandpa had prostate cancer. One of my mom's best friends passed suddenly from ovarian cancer. A friend from college has been battling a horrible brain tumor for years. One of my best friends is a gene carrier of BRACA which has enormous implications towards developing cancer and for future reproductive capabilities.
Cancer is unfathomable, until it happens. Cue Mike Tyson... "everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face." I think that is what life is all about. Fighting cancer require ceaseless effort and courage ... not to mention a huge support network. I can't imagine anything more important to fight for.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training?
Dirty martinis. @bigmikecastle - do I really have to give up martinis?
When you’re not throwing punches and training - what other hobbies/interests do you have?
When I'm not having a martini with friends, fam or my awesome co-workers ... you can usually find me traveling or doing something active.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
I'm pretty sure my little brother. So far though, it sounds like people are more excited that I'm learning how to punch someone else in the face :)
Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Emily!