SOMEBODY’S HERO

Everyone needs a hero at some point in their life.  For Rhonda Hayden, her hero came three years ago in the form of her son, Jack Madden.   Jack is now a 12 year old sixth grader at Community House Middle School with a passion for the game of baseball.  A few years ago, he was an elementary student whose mother had just been diagnosed with Stage Three Breast Cancer.

On the day of Rhonda’s diagnosis she can remember a few things very clearly.

“I remember the difficult day when I told Jack that I had cancer he looked at me and said “Are you going to die? I promised him on that day that I would fight to stick around…he promised me that he would fight to make sure that I never gave up and  that is what he did. He was with me through chemotherapy and radiation never showing fear that I know now he must have felt. At times he would come and just lay beside me I know that he was silently saying a prayer.”

Jack’s fulfilled the promise to his Mother to help her beat Cancer.   He helped her to stay positive and give every ounce of energy to the fight.  He was always there for his Mom and now, Rhonda is about to celebrate her third year of being Cancer free.

As part of the celebration, Jack has committed himself to giving back to help others with Breast Cancer.  He recently participated in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Jack was a member of the 1st ever Youth Crew, and they called themselves the “Cancer Killer Bee’s.”  Jack ended up being one of the top fundraisers for the walk.   For three nights, Jack slept on the ground, cheered on walkers and gave people hope and inspiration to keep going through the 2 day, 39 mile walk.  Jack’s stepdad, Lenny was also a volunteer for the walk, making it a true family affair.

Jack talks about why he wanted to participate in the walk.

“I participated in the walk and did fundraising so that one day a cure can be found for breast cancer. Some kids are not so lucky and they don’t have their moms anymore and that makes me very sad. Myself and the 8 other kids that have been affected from breast cancer became a “team” for that week-end and I know that we were a help to a lot of people.  It is something that I will never forget and I made friendships that hopefully will last a life time. When someone my age talks about breast cancer other kids and adults will listen.”

Jack says he can’t wait until he is 16 years old and can walk the entire distance of the walk.

Now that life is back to normal for his family, Jack is focusing a lot of his time on baseball at Park Sharon Athletic Association.  Jack plays pitcher and first base in addition to any other position his coach asks him to head to.  He recently won his third trophy in the last two months with both his challenge team and fall league team. 

Jack’s coach Scott Whitlock informed his mom that Jack was always offering inspiration and encouragement to any of the players feeling down or discouraged.   Jack’s had a little practice at that, so it’s no big surprise for his mother to hear those words.

To add one more challenge to the equation…Jack broke his hand in October and with Doctors permission continued to play baseball and recorded some great hits with a cast on!

The most exciting part of baseball for Jack is being able to look into the stands and see his mom providing support.

“My mom and Dad both have never missed a game that I can remember. Having my mom cheering me on gives me the encouragement to be the best I can be. She has always supported me in everything I have done and I know she will always be there for me like I will always be there for her. When I broke my hand I know she thought I was crazy for wanting to keep on playing baseball but the doctor gave me permission and I knew I could do it and I did!”

The life experiences for 12 year old Jack Madden are truly incredible.  He reflected back over what he has learned from his Mom about life the last three years.

“I have learned lots of things from my mom. I have learned that it’s okay for guys to cry.  I have learned to never ask “why me” but ask “why not me.” 

“I have learned to never give up and follow your dreams. I have learned to always be kind to everyone because you never know what someone may be going through.”

Very powerful words from such a thoughtful and caring young man. Knowing what Jack has been through and how he stood up in a time of need for his Mom will make anyone pull for his success.  Jack doesn’t seem to want you to do that though. He would be much happier if we all took that time and provided support for others in need.

The South Charlotte Sports Report wants to express our appreciation for the support Jack has provided to his Mother.  We also want to thank him for providing thoughts on life that we can all live by.  You are a true inspiration young man!