Team Jeg’s ‘Racing for Cancer Research’ efforts continue

The Coughlin brothers unveiled their “Racing for Cancer Research” special paint scheme at Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, this week. The hospital is the fourth largest childcare specific facility in the country and prides itself on never turning away children who are in need of serious medical attention. There are over 1.5-million square feet solely devoted to making children who battle some of the most deadly diseases known to man better.

Thomas N. Hansen, M.D., CEO, Children’s Hospital, said the Jeg’s relationship with Children’s Hospital through their partnership of the Circle of Friends will have a significant impact on Children’s cancer programs.

“The Jegs Foundation’s recent gift to Children’s Hospital, designated for pediatric cancer research, will directly impact hundreds of children in central Ohio,” Hansen said. “The Children’s Hospital’s pediatric cancer program is the largest in Ohio, and one of the leading programs nationwide. The Jegs Foundation’s funds mean that more resources are available to provide the best care to children and to continue to search for a cure for this devastating childhood disease.”

Jeg Coughlin’s 2002 NHRA POWERade Pro Stock championship-winning car went on display in the lobby of the hospital after being unveiled. The car will remain on display until June 15th to promote a number of awareness and fund-raising efforts.

“We thought it was a great opportunity to create some additional excitement for some upcoming events we are involved with,” team and program spokesperson Scott Woodruff said.

Since 1999, General Motors has been bringing drivers to Children’s Hospital to add cheer to children throughout the hospital.

The Jeg’s Mail Order cars will sport their “Racing for Cancer Research” paint scheme during the upcoming 40th annual Pontiac Excitement NHRA Nationals at National Trail Raceway, just east of Columbus.

Local fan favorites Jeg and Troy Coughlin will do their best to help build awareness through their efforts in Pro Stock. Brothers John and Mike Coughlin will handle the duties in the NHRA sportsman ranks. The two brothers compete in Super Stock and Super Gas, respectively.

The Jeg’s Foundation is the premier sponsor of the 10th annual Circle of Friends. They added a 5K run two years ago to broaden the scope and reach of the event. The event will be held June 15 in New Albany, Ohio, at Market Square. Participants can walk, push, or run to help in the fund-raising efforts against cancer. Last year, there were over 500 participants and as a team they raised over $130,000.

The highlight of the day when they unveiled their display car was the tour the Coughlin brothers took through the facility. During the visit the brothers passed out stuffed “Racing for Cancer Research” racecars to the patients.

“Walking through the Intensive Care Unit and seeing infants and young children that are battling for their lives brought tears to my eyes,” said John.

“When I was born I was three-and-a-half pounds and was brought immediately to Children’s Hospital,” Mike said. “This was a real eye-opening experience. I have a 3-year-old son and my wife is expecting soon. This stuff is real.”

“Making a connection with kids is always great,” Troy said. “Giving them a fun toy was a great way to breakdown barriers and create a positive memory for them.”

“One of the patients is a big race fan and when he heard we were coming he was really excited,” Jeg said. “We had a blast with him. He told us who he liked and why. We all talked about drivers we liked and Playstation 2 games. My brother John asked him if he was better than his older brother and he looked at us with the most serious look and said ‘of course.’ Everyone in the room cracked up and then we all started telling him stories about us. We feel like we made a connection and a difference.”