Late coach Jim Valvano's daughter, cancer survivor presented with 'Spirit of Jimmy V Award' in Napa
"It's because of cancer research that I'm alive today," said Jamie Valvano.
NAPA, Calif. (KGO) -- "Don't Give Up. Don't Ever Give Up." The iconic and inspiring words of the late Jim Valvano. The legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator, announcing The V Foundation for Cancer Research in 1993.
On Saturday night in Napa Valley, his daughter Jamie Valvano made her own mark on stage, accepting the Jimmy V Spirit Award named after her father, at the V Foundation Wine Celebration.
"He would be so proud, not only as the founder and person who created all of this, but also as a dad to see me tonight I know he was with me," said Jamie, who is celebrating 20 years cancer-free after battling breast cancer. She credits her father's vision and the V Foundation with helping to save her life.
"It's because of cancer research that I'm alive today. I can't even put into words. I walk in his footsteps every day, and I'm alive because of what he did and established with the V Foundation."
Mike Krzyzewski, the legendary Duke University basketball coach, presented her with the award. He is one of the original foundation board members, recalling his close friend's words about cancer research and the Jimmy V Foundation.
"When he said it's not going to save my life, it may save one of my children's lives, or life of a loved one. Okay, it did save the life of one of your children. How crazy good is that?," said Krzyzewski.
MORE: Former ESPN president honored with Jimmy V Spirit Award at cancer fundraising event in Napa
Krzyzewski described Jamie as the perfect fit for the Jimmy V Spirit Award. "First of all, she looks like her dad. She's taller than her dad, and she's an incredible speaker. She has his spirit."
As for Jamie, she can't imagine a better person to present her with her father's award, calling Krzyzewski a father figure.
"He has taken the friendship that he had with my dad, and he has honored him in such a way that he's honored his family and children, and he's been there throughout the last 30 years of The V Foundation."
