His physical health improving, Mike June's financial health is hurting. The benefit bash seeks to ease the pain.
By BOB PUTNAM
Published February 28, 2004
PALM HARBOR - Since suffering a relapse in his battle with leukemia, Palm Harbor University High School football coach Mike June has been in and out of the hospital, good days followed by bad days.
Lately, the good days have been more frequent. June underwent a bone marrow transplant in January and his weight, along with his white blood cell count, has been on the rise.
Still, June faces another battle. Though insurance pays for most of the treatment, his out-of-pocket expenses have risen past $10,000. June has taken most of his sick days during his extended stay in the hospital, but those are running out. With four young boys and a daughter on the way, money is tight.
Touched by the family's dilemma, friends of the 41-year-old coach have planned a fundraiser at the Palm Harbor Hooters restaurant, 36091 U.S. 19 N, today in the hope of taking the financial pressure off the June family.
"I'm sure the bills have to be astronomical," said Allyn Ramker, a former athletic director at Boca Ciega and Seminole who has known the June family for years. "There are a lot of people that wanted to help and pledge their support."
The benefit is from 11 a.m. to midnight. A live auction will included free air fare, tickets to Phillies spring training games and autographed sports memorabilia, including a helmet worn by former Countryside High star and current Carolina Panther Jeff Mitchell. Mitchell also will be on hand to sign autographs.
June plans to attend in the evening with his wife and kids.
"I feel fortunate to have some pretty good friends," he said.
