Diagnosed with breast cancer in October, Smith brings message of early detection to Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS—The Heroes Foundation is proud to announce that ESPN Reporter Shelley Smith is lending her support to the organization in celebration of its 15th year during the An Evening With Heroes gala on Jan. 17, 2015.

On Oct. 1, 2014, Smith bravely announced via Twitter that she had been diagnosed with cancer. “I now join the one in eight women who are battling breast cancer. Early detection will save my life. Tell loved ones,” she tweeted, generating just under 1,000 retweets and more than 1,800 shares on related news stories.

Smith recently interviewed Good Morning America anchor and cancer survivor Robin Roberts about her survivorship. During that interview, a message about fighting reigned, aligning well with Smith’s career covering competitive sports and the Heroes Foundation’s commitment to waging a war on cancer in Indiana.

Smith decided to announce her diagnosis in part to spread the message of the power of early detection for women of all walks of life.

About An Evening With Heroes

An Evening With Heroes is an annual celebration that features an auction, dinner and dancing. The 2015 An Evening With Heroes, our 15th anniversary, will be held Jan. 17, 2015, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. (For ticket and sponsorship information, visitwww.heroesfoundation.org/events/.) As the Heroes Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, the nonprofit relies on the generous support of individuals and businesses.

In 2014, An Evening With Heroes raised over $205,000. Chuck Pagano spoke via video message, three-time cancer survivor and LIVESTRONG CEO Doug Ulman served the keynote, and two-time cancer survivor and current battler ESPN Sportscaster Stuart Scott emceed the incredible night. The 2013 event raised over $163,000. During that special evening, Indianapolis Colts Head Coach and cancer survivor Chuck Pagano served the truly inspiring keynote address.

Media Opportunities

• Vince Todd, Jr., Heroes Foundation chairman and founder, is available for interviews and can be contacted directly at vtoddjr@heroesfoundation.com.
• For photos from the 2014 or 2013 gala, or from Heroes Foundation programming, please contact Casey Kenley at casey@caseykenley.com.
• A limited number of guest registrations are available to the media; please contact Casey Kenley at casey@caseykenley.com for more information.
• Photos of Shelley Smith are also available (contact casey@caseykenley.com).