A woman to admire

The news of Pat Summitt's diagnosis of early onset dementia, Alzheimer's type, has jarred the sports community and shocked the Volunteer family to the core. We all know her impact on the sport, most wins, 8 national championships and an indelible impact on women's collegiate athletics. Some of the student athletes she has mentored have gone on to raise families, some have become professional athletes but all are women of strength and character and all have been impacted and imprinted by her leadership.

My first reaction to her diagnosis was one of deep sadness, knowing that Pat Summitt- one of the great sports minds of our time at some point may not recall her accomplishments- we will. And her son, it chokes me up to watch their interview together. Their relationship is so strong and the support and love he has shown his mom through this is just awesome. My second reaction to this news was one of excitement... I know stay with me though. I look forward to seeing what Pat Summitt can do to elevate the awareness, advocacy, research and funding around this devastating disease. Someone with such a national platform who is so widely loved and respected now has the opportunity to change the face of dementia, the same way she changed the game of basketball. September is Alzheimer's awareness month and I know that this news hit some time ago but I felt the need to share my feelings. As a woman who grew up playing sports, one who went to the University of Tennessee and one who has a great respect for her contributions to my university, to women's collegiate athletics and to every little girl who wanted to be an athlete at the next level. She has made it possible on a scale that many never thought possible.
Pat Summitt will turn this diagnosis on its head and fight, in her own words "they'll be no pity party, I'll make sure of that." My love and prayers go to Pat and Tyler and their family and friends. Pat, thank you for what you have done and will continue to do for the University of Tennessee, the game of basketball, and the advancement of women- in athletics and beyond. I feel honored to be a part of your University of Tennessee family.