PLAY FOR RAY
If you played soccer in Orlando over the last forty years, you have likely played for Ray Sandidge, everyone’s favorite coach. Ray is not the “leave it on the field” type of guy. His energy bleeds through his voice (“coaching loudly” to his players), his body, and his heart. He is often seen handing out Smarties to the up-and-coming players and makes it a point to know names and become friends with all their family members. Ray is always up for a team lunch or dinner and goes out of his way to help and support his players and those close to him. His motto of “once you are one of my boys—always one of my boys” has been imprinted on so many players throughout the years, and he continues to direct his energies to the game of soccer. In fact, many players will contribute their life’s success to Ray’s infamous advice to be able to “dance good, look good, and play good.”
Recently, Ray and his family received some news that would cause anyone to stop in their tracks…but not Ray. Ray is going to battle, head-on with both eyes open, and his “team”…all of us if you are reading this…are his cheerleaders. Positive thoughts go a long way—and that’s what we will share. So many of you have asked what else you can do. Ray was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer with a few spots on his liver. His medical team, along with Patti and Ray himself, made the decision to hold off on surgery and do chemo/radiation first to stop the growth and shrink the tumor. After about six weeks, his team will re-evaluate his treatment plan and make modifications that may include surgery to remove the tumor.
If you know Ray and Patti, you know that they have HUGE hearts and are always the first to help anyone in need. We do not want them to worry about any medical bills during this difficult time. Their focus should be solely on Ray’s full recovery…his family and players are counting on it! Ray is even drinking smoothies if you can believe it. Every little bit helps to get Ray one step closer to healthy!
In Hope and Love for Ray,
Central Florida Soccer Family
