2007 Epstein Becker & Green Los Angeles Open WISPA World Tour Event to benefit the Stephen Cox Cancer Care Fund


June 20, 2007

The Los Angeles Athletic Club will host the 2007 Epstein Becker & Green WISPA World Tour Event, (co-sponsored by Feather Sports) over the June 20-24 weekend. This year The Event will benefit the Stephen Cox Cancer Care Fund through contributions made to the Talbert Family Foundation.

In 2004…Stephen Cox, Los Angeles Squash Professional originally from England, was diagnosed with stage four colorectal Cancer that metastasized to the liver. Treatments began with radiation and chemotherapy, eventually resulting in an Illiostomy operation in February of 2005. Everything went pretty well, but Stephen will still need liver surgery. The goal is to reduce the $60,000 debt his family has incurred. Unable to work, Stephen has a monthly income shortfall of about $2,000. The Talbert Family Foundation has generously offered to match contributions to a certain amount made to Stephen’s Fund. Any size gift will be greatly appreciated and help bring the family one step closer to realizing their goal.

The Talbert Family Foundation, (a 501-(c)-3 organization) is dedicated to providing financial assistance to families afflicted with catastrophic illnesses…primarily cancer. The family started this foundation because they believe fitness and charity are integral parts to leading a fulfilling life and should be a lifetime commitment. Their TFF Kids program has helped over 25 families, providing over $825,000 in direct financial support with additional matching funds. Read more about Stephen and make pledges to the Fund via this WISPA event, (which are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law) by going to the Talbert Family Foundation web site at www.talbertfamilyfoundation.org.

Andrew Shelley, WISPA Chief Executive said, “I’m delighted that the WISPA World Tour is expanding to Los Angeles and being hosted by the highly respected LAAC.” He went on to say, "We really welcome this initiative of LAAC Squash Professional Bob Hanscom and his band of sponsors who are bringing a selection of great players to Los Angeles to compete on the WISPA World Tour for the first time. I am certain that their squash community will enjoy five days of superb competition which will stimulate media interest in our great sport.”

The tournament organizers would like to invite everyone from around the world to participate in this benefit event as a sponsor, patron, professional or amateur player. Checks should be made payable to the Talbert Family Foundation, notation to read Stephen Cox Cancer Care and sent to Bob Hanscom, The Los Angeles Athletic Club 431 W. 7th Street, LA, CA 90014. Further information may be obtained by e-mailing lasquash@yahoo.com.