On October 2, 2024, Marty Fischer lost his father, Pat Fischer, to cancer. Pat was a legend– a former NFL player who played 17 years in the league, with 10 of those years right here with the Washington Redskins. He was known as a relentless and fearless cornerback, a member of the team’s Ring of Fame, and a hero to many. But to Marty, he was just “Dad.” Now, Marty is turning his grief into action, stepping into the boxing ring to fight for his father’s memory and for everyone affected by cancer.
Marty, a resident of Montgomery County for seven years, describes himself as an “everyday person” in his 40s. He’s been training and boxing for about 20 years, earning the title of a “Master Boxer,” but has never competed in a sanctioned event– until now. He’s decided that fighting cancer is the perfect reason to make his official debut, to “punch cancer in the face.”
The event, hosted by Haymakers for Hope, will take place on September 25 at 7:30 pm at The Wharf in Washington DC. You can donate to Marty’s cause here.
Marty’s motivation is deeply personal. He recounts how his father, despite his tough exterior and legendary career, faced a battle he couldn’t win. Pat Fischer was a man who taught his children how to “fight with heart, show up when it matters most, and lead with love and strength.” He was a constant presence, whether life was difficult or good.
Then came cancer, a fight “none of us were ready for.” Marty recalls the heartbreaking moment he watched his sister’s heart shatter as they learned there was nothing left to do for their father. “He didn’t want to go. He didn’t want to leave us. He didn’t want us to see him like that,” Marty writes.
With his father’s legacy of toughness and fire coursing through him, Marty will step into the ring not just for his dad, but for the many friends he’s met in Montgomery County who are also battling cancer.
In his corner will be his sister Allison, brother-in-law Mat, his wife Andrea, and his children, Patrick and Claire– just as his father was always in theirs.
Marty invites the community to join him, to “cheer loud” and “fight proud” as he and his family honor the man who made them who they are.
For more information on the event or to support Marty’s fight against cancer, visit the Haymakers for Hope website.
