A Million Reasons to Smile

Check presentation
Monday Night Raw
Courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents

The past month I've devoted my blog writing time to my Halloween tradition of the "Boo blogs".  Now it's time to focus on current story lines and goings on in the world of wrestling.  Sure there are plenty of interesting stories developing as we head to the Survivor Series, and I'll focus on that in the coming days.  Today I want to acknowledge and tip my hat (if I was wearing one) to the WWE and their efforts to raise money and awareness about breast cancer.

On the October 29 episode of Raw, the WWE presented the Susan G. Komen Fund for the Cure a one million dollar check.  It was the result of a month long campaign and the first time the WWE focused on breast cancer.  In addition to the testimonials from WWE Superstars, the company sold special pink merchandise with the proceeds going to support the charitable group.  The ring also got a makeover and featured a pink rope in the middle.

Rise Above Cancer

I know some people have lambasted the WWE for doing this.  Some say the check presentation and announcement was grand standing.  I however disagree with those who are critical of it.  Personally, I don't care if the WWE had ulterior motives with this campaign.  I honestly think they were out there doing a good thing for the sake of doing a good thing.  Raising a million bucks in a month and donating it to someone who needs it is noble in my opinion.  A lot of businesses have started doing fundraising for breast cancer awareness during October in recent years, and the WWE has the ability to reach a whole different demographic that companies may not reach.

Cena and his gear
Courtesy: WWE

This project also proved to me again that John Cena is truly a class act.  He has earned his spot as the company spokesman as far as I'm concerned and has been the ideal representative for WWE.  Yes he's been in the main event or upper tier for years, but at this point, I don't see anyone in the locker room who stands out as being that "corporate face" that Vince McMahon has always wanted.

Kudos again to the WWE and the WWE Universe for supporting such a worthy project.  I suspect that this is the start of more campaigns for other groups who need the support.