Pat Summitt – CBS Interview

07 Sunday Apr 2013

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Books, Celebrities, Inspiration, Mom, Pat Summitt

Those of us who have enjoyed women’s college basketball over the years know how special Pat Summitt is. As a coach, mentor, and someone who has always believed girls are capable of doing everything their male peers can do, Summitt has been an inspiration to millions. Mom always loved her.

Never was that more true than in the summer of 2011, when, at age 59, she announced she had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. She, along with her incredible son, Tyler, were prepared to fight. They intended to do everything they could to bring awareness to the disease that has affected so many families. There was no self pity… just determination to go on with life and make a difference as they entered this unexpected new chapter in their lives.

Sum It Up, Coach Summitt’s third book with Sally Jenkins, is the story of resilience; from coaching to motherhood, and now her latest challenge, ALZ, this woman is tough as nails, yet as kind and compassionate as they come. Upon its release, Summitt’s memoir took its spot on the NY Times Best Seller List and has remained there since.

The basketball legend and her son were recently interviewed for a piece on CBS, and clearly, they continue to enlighten, inspire, and fight. Click here and take a few minutes to watch.

Pat Summitt stepping down as Lady Vols’ coach

18 Wednesday Apr 2012

Posted by Ann Napoletan in 4M, Celebrities, Early Onset, Face of Alzheimer's, Pat Summitt, Walk to End ALZ

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I was stunned last year when Pat Summitt announced she was suffering from Alzheimer’s. A strong, independent woman. Charismatic. Role model for others. My mom shared these same traits, and I think that makes it even harder to imagine her, like Coach Summitt, falling prey to the disease. I’ve said so many times over the years that my mom was the LAST person I would have ever expected to suffer its wrath, and I felt the same about Pat Summitt.

Well, today, just eight months after the announcement, at age 59, Pat Summitt told the world she is stepping down as head coach. On a positive note, the winningest coach in college basketball history – male or female – will assume the title of “head coach emeritus.” While she will no longer actively coach the team, it sounds like she will continue to be very much a part of the program for as long as the disease allows.

My mom always loved watching women’s basketball and had great respect for Coach Summitt. Who would have imagined that the two would end up having so much in common? Pat Summitt – and my mom – remind us that Alzheimer’s can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, status, or strength of character. It knows no bounds, and does not discriminate, which makes is so terribly imperative that a cure is found…

To read more about today’s announcement, follow this link and if you would like to contribute to this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s or join Marilyn’s Mighty Memory Makers, visit our team site.

… Until next time… Carpe diem…