PITTSBURGH - When Saint Francis University Coach Paul Tobin found out that a fellow college coach and teaching pro was recently diagnosed with liver cancer, he immediately started a fundraising campaign on her behalf. In less than six weeks, Coach Tobin helped organize a liver cancer fundraising event that grossed over $8,000.

"I felt compelled to do something for someone who has done so much for the tennis community," said Tobin, who is in his third season as SFU's Head tennis coach. "We had over 100 people attend the event; I had no idea we would be able to raise so much. The tennis community really came together to support this wonderful cause."

The fundraising event was held at Pro-Care Fitness in Altoona and attendees were treated to tennis games and silent auctions. All the proceeds went directly to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.

Earlier this week, Tobin was invited to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute for a check presentation and a tour of the research facility.

"It was a pleasure to have Coach Tobin visit the Hillman Cancer Center,” said Paula Hencel, who is the major gifts officer at the Institute.  "We are grateful to have (him) working on our behalf using his time and tennis talent."

If you would like to donate money for liver cancer research please contact:


Paula L. Hencel                                        
University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
Development Office
5150 Centre Avenue, Suite 1B
Pittsburgh, PA 15232