Old School Northeast MMAer Battling Cancer

Sherman Pendergarst, an old school veteran of the Northeast MMA scene responsible for some real thrillers (his KO win over Glen Sandull at Sportfighting and his KO loss to Jon Murphy at an Extreme Challenge both come to mind) is currently battling cancer.  From Facebook:

"I wanted to write this for all of my friends, family and fans. This is to give you an update of what has been going in my life. First, I want to thank EVERYONE that has written to me, stopped to see me in the hospital, called me or given me their prayers. Without all of your support I don't know if some days I would... make it through. Your continued encouragement makes every day brighter for me.

After receiving chemo and radiation last year for the rectal cancer it has returned, and quite frankly did not go away. I also now have colon cancer. I have spent quite a bit of time at the University of Iowa of late and they have taken very good care of me. I can tell you that I am now back home and so happy to be here. I am receiving chemo again and am on the road to recovery! There are wonderful nurses that come in weekly to my house to help me with a number of things. I am grateful for their help and attention!

I will be coming to the gym periodically to work out and also to get out of the house!  Ha, Ha.  Please contact me anytime by email or FB, I love hearing from you.

I have a very strong faith in God and all the good that comes from my life and I believe I will beat this thing. Thank you to all of you always.

Peace..."

 

I never got a chance to interview Sherman when he was fighting locally, but he was definitely a banger that gave it all in the cage.  He eventually moved on to fight in the UFC and even Bellator - a testament to his ability and the excitement he brought.  I hope he wins this battle.