Strikeout Cancer for Christina Smith Beal

Greetings,

I'm Shannon Riley, the Head Softball Coach at Howard Community College. Each year, we host a Strikeout Cancer game to raise funds for specific charities. Over the past two years, our collective efforts secured the NJCAA award for the highest funds raised. This year, we aspire to continue this success, seizing the opportunity to assist a family in need.

Christina Smith Beal, a fellow Pallotti High School alumna and former softball player, is facing a formidable battle against stage 4 Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Diagnosed at 36, she underwent a year of chemotherapy, successfully addressing the primary leg tumor and lung nodules. However, a recent scan in January 2024 revealed new tumors in both lungs, leading to the recommendation of another round of chemo. The prognosis is challenging, with an estimated survival of one to one and a half years. Fortunately, Christina is a former softball athlete. Her journey in softball has uniquely prepared her for this challenge, instilling qualities of resilience, teamwork, and determination. Christina will fight and use valuable tools learned from the sport we love to help overcome her toughest at bat yet.

Christina, now 38, is a mother to three young children—Tyler (8), Layla (7), and Mason (5)—and wife to Brian. A special education teacher in Anne Arundel County, she faces financial hardships due to leave without pay during treatment gaps. In times like these, mere words fall short. It is the collective support of family, friends, and the community that can provide solace.

I urge you to contribute to the Strikeout Cancer initiative for Christina and her family. All proceeds will directly assist with medical costs and family needs, offering a glimmer of hope in their challenging journey.

"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence."

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,

Shannon Riley

Head Softball Coach

Howard Community College