A Crucial Strike – Horseheads’ Mike Rennells fights cancer

WAVERLY, N.Y. (WETM) – The Twin Tiers is rallying behind one local student-athlete and his family.

Horseheads High School senior Mike Rennells received the shock of a lifetime in March. Following unexplained pain in his neck and lower back, Rennells was forced to withdraw from the Junior Gold Bowling Championship in Detroit. After several medical visits, the 17-year-old received the stunning diagnosis of Stage IV Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of cancer that targets the lymphatic system.

Once news of Rennells’ diagnosis reached the public, the Twin Tiers rallied around the local family. Along with the support of his classmates, teammates, and coaches, several local businesses reached out to assist in Mike’s fight. The Horseheads Do-It Center, Rita’s Italian Ice, and Jams Fitness Club (formerly Joycrest) each hosted fundraising events to help offset medical and travel costs.

This coming Tuesday, September 10th, Nick’s Pub & Grille will also be helping the Rennells family. Patrons who dine at the Horseheads restaurant this Tuesday, will be able to donate 10% of their bill to assist in Mike’s fight, by asking their server.

The Rennells also started a GoFundMe page, which can be found at the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-michael-rennells-fight-against-cancer .

With the community rallying behind him, Rennells continues to compete on the lanes, despite his diagnosis. Honing his craft at Waverly’s Valley Bowling Center, the Horseheads senior is inspiring those around him. Along with his family, one of those being motivated by Mike’s resilience is his bowling mentor, and 1987 PBA Rookie of the Year Ryan Shafer.

Shafer, who is a Horseheads native echoed the sentiment of Mike’s parents, Ted and Tricia, who shared their stories with 18 Sports.

In addition to bowling for Horseheads High School and competing on New York’s Youth Bowling Tour, Mike shared his excitement to support the Blue Raiders football team. Although he can’t play on the gridiron, the multi-sport athletes hopes his fight will inspire his team.

“I love the family aspect of the team, said Rennells. The team is amazing and we should have a good year. They’ve been a great family for the past couple years.”

As Mike’s fight continues to inspire and raise awareness in the Twin Tiers, he and his family shared that they are extremely grateful.

“Thank you, said Rennells. Anything that they are doing or have done is going to help no matter what. The community has been a huge help with all that they have done. It just means a lot.”

(Photos Courtesy of the Rennells Family).

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