Robert Guerrero Raising Cancer Awareness with Hometown Celebration

Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero is a top featherweight in the boxing world, and on May 15 will be honored in his hometown for his example to the youth of Gilroy, Calif., and to help raise money for cancer awareness. Guerrero's wife has courageously battled leukemia for years, and both she and her husband have been advocates for cancer awareness during that time.

From a press release:

The city of Gilroy, California, hometown to five-time world champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, is dedicating a special day to their accomplished hero. On Sunday May 15, 2011, family, friends and fans are encouraged to make their way to downtown Gilroy as the official Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero Day will be celebrated. Streets will be blocked off on 5th St. from Eigleberry St. to Monterey Road beginning at 12:00 with festivities till 6:00 P.M. Money raised from a $5.00 dinner plate, $5.00 autographed photos and raffled items will be donated to the "Leukemia and Lymphoma Society" and "Be The Match National Marrow Donor Program."

"It's a great honor to be recognized by the people of Gilroy." said Guerrero. "Not only will I be honored for my accomplishments in the ring, but this event will help raise money and bring awareness to people suffering from cancer. I encourage everyone to come out and join the bone marrow registry. A simple cotton swab in the mouth is all it takes. By doing that a life can be saved."

Mayor Al Pinheiro went on to say "Robert Guerrero is to be congratulated not only for his boxing titles, which are an amazing accomplishment, but also as a tremendous example to all for his community spirit. Robert is an exceptional role model for our youth, and definitely one who leads by example. Accomplishing what he has under ideal conditions would be extraordinary in itself, but coupled with the other challenges that Robert and his family have faced, and conquered, the true champion spirit of Robert is there for all to see. Not only is he one of the best fighters in the World, he is someone who, we as Gilroyans, can all be extremely proud of."

In addition, State Assemblyman Luis Alejo will be giving Robert Guerrero a Proclamation on behalf of the State Assembly and State Senate.

"The Gilroy Police department would like to recognize hometown hero Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero for his amazing success and for being a positive role model to all Gilroy youth." stated Police Chief Denise Turner. "We applaud his efforts and commitment to our community."

Both Guerrero and his lovely wife Casey are to be saluted, and this is the sort of story we don't get to hear much in boxing. For those in the Gilroy area, here's the schedule for May 15, if you wish to attend:

12:00 - Tri-Tip Sandwich Plate $5.00 served.
1:00 - Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero Intro.
2:30 - 3:30 - Autographed photos available for purchase $5.00.
3:30 - 4:00 - Robert & Father Boxing Demonstration.
4:45 - 5:00 - Presentation to "The Ghost" by Mayor and City Council