Jim Valvano's wife was a remarkable woman named Ellen Valvano. The couple met in 1964, and they were married on June 22, 1968. Ellen was a devoted partner to Jim, supporting him throughout his coaching career.
After Jim passed away from pancreatic cancer on April 28, 1993, Ellen continued his legacy by establishing the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research (JVF) in his honor. The foundation's mission is to fund research and support programs that aim to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
Ellen has been instrumental in guiding the JVF, ensuring that her husband's vision of helping others continues through the organization. She has also worked tirelessly to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer and other forms of cancer, advocating for increased funding and research.
The Jimmy V Classic, an annual college basketball tournament, is another initiative established by Ellen and the JVF to continue Jim's legacy and support cancer research.
Ellen Valvano's selfless dedication to her husband's memory has inspired countless people, and her work with the JVF has made a significant impact on the fight against cancer.
The legendary "Don't Give Up, Don't Ever Give Up" speech by Jim Valvano!
Jim Valvano was the head coach of the North Carolina State University men's basketball team when he delivered this iconic speech at the 1993 ESPY Awards. The awards ceremony honored the best in sports from the previous year.
Valvano had been diagnosed with terminal cancer just a few months earlier, and his speech was an emotional tribute to those who were struggling with adversity. He spoke about the importance of perseverance, hope, and never giving up, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
The speech is famous for its powerful message, delivered in a choked-up but determined tone:
"It's like... it's like... when you get down on one knee, as we're doing right now, you say, 'What am I going to do?' Well, you have got to look up for just a second and you have got to say, 'Hey, that guy, he's not too bad.' You know what? That's it!... Don't give up, don't ever give up!"
Valvano's speech resonated deeply with the audience, including many athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts. It has since become one of the most inspiring and memorable speeches in sports history.
Sadly, Jim Valvano passed away just a few months after delivering his ESPY Awards speech, but his legacy lives on through his courageous fight against cancer and his uplifting message that continues to motivate people around the world.