ALMS and Austin Hatcher Foundation

In 2012, the Austin Hatcher Foundation continues its partnership with the American Le Mans Series through its “Fueling Potential:Racing to Win” Campaign to help pediatric cancer patients and their families. 

“The Fueling Potential:Racing to Win” program provides families affected by pediatric cancer with the emotional and educational “Fuel” to ensure that each family member reaches his or her maximum potential as cancer survivors and ultimately “Win Life’s Race.” 

“Our Focus is on early detection and recovery” said Ryan Thompson, Austin Hatcher Foundation’s psychologist. “Early detection and interventions of educational, emotional, and social delays or deficits resulting from pediatric cancer and its treatments are addressed before they can create lasting effects on the children and their families. These services are provided at no cost to those receiving treatment through the Foundation’s landmark cancer care center Hatch’s House of Hope in Chattanooga, Tenn.”

Together, the Series and the Foundation provide families with a needed escape from the everyday realities of pediatric cancer through a treatment concept known as diversionary therapy.

Before each race, drivers visit local children’s hospitals to provide pediatric cancer patients and their families with fun activities, including the opportunity to build and race their own pinewood derby cars. The drivers also visit the individual rooms of any children who are not presently well enough to participate in group activities. In addition to enjoying activities at the hospital, families are invited to spend a day at the track participating in many exciting racing activities.

The American Le Mans Series is also hosting two exciting fundraising events benefitting the Foundation: a Racers Pro-Am Golf Tournament and a Motorcycle Charity Ride. Both events are held in Braselton, GA on Oct.14, following the final race of the season, Petit Le Mans Powered by Mazda. Each event is not only a fitting celebratory finish to the 2012 American Le Mans Series season, but also a reflection of the Series’ commitment to pediatric cancer patients and their families. Both events are open to the public.

For more information on the Austin Hatcher Foundation, visit the Foundation online at hatcherfoundation.org. If you would like learn more about volunteer opportunities or the many ways in which you can support the American Le Mans Series’ partnership with the Austin Hatcher Foundation, please call 423-834-4443 or email info@hatcherfoundation.org.