James Blake knows that keeping active while battling cancer can positively improve the well-being of cancer patients.   Not only does physical activity reduce the negative side effects of treatment, it increases patient’s strength, energy, and overall well-being.

On August 23, 2017, AKTIV Against Cancer Foundation along with James Blake hosted a pro-am tennis charity fundraiser at the Vanderbilt Tennis Club located in Grand Central Station.

 “Cancer has impacted my life personally which is why I created the James Blake Foundation. It was an honor for me to support and take part in AKTIV Against Cancer’s pro-am alongside Sarah Robb O’Hagan, Michelle Yu and Tina Cervasio to raise awareness for this important cause,” said James Blake. 

The event also featured CEO of Flywheel Sarah Robb O’Hagan, SNY Sportscaster Michelle Yu and CBS Sports Anchor Tina Cervasio as the MC for the evening.

Founded in Norway in 2007 by Norwegian national icon and nine-time New York City Marathon champion, Grete Waitz, and Helle Aanesen, AKTIV Against Cancer established their presence in the United States in 2014.  AKTIV Against Cancer supports various research projects to study the preventive effect of physical activity on cancer. AKTIV is currently funding two research projects at New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.  “AKTIV Against Cancer is thrilled to broaden our reach through the sport of tennis. We are happy to experience such profound mutual interest in fighting cancer by including physical activity as part of treatment. I want to thank James Blake, Sarah Robb O’Hagan, Tina Cervasio and Michelle Yu for everything as they are amazing ambassadors for our cause and all the supporters who came out and cheered them on,” said Helle Aanesen, Global Managing Director, AKTIV.

Attendees watched an exciting tennis match between Michelle Yu and Sarah Rob O’Hagan

Tennis fans had a chance to “hit with a pro” with James Blake