For Kelli Griggs, it was not all about getting publicity, it was also getting a chance to play for the cause because Kelli's grandmother died of breast cancer and her aunt is currently fighting that battle. In fact, Griggs is a four year survivor of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is cancer that originates in your lymphatic system, the disease-fighting network spread throughout your body. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has been one of the most rapidly increasing types of cancer in the United States, having more than doubled in incidence since the 1970s. The good news is that although the incidence has increased, so has the survival rate. As with other cancers, the earlier you receive a diagnosis, the greater your chance for a successful treatment of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
This vivacious young mother of two grew up around cards, but only started to seriously focus on poker in the last year. She credits her brush with a deadly disease as one of the motivating forces in her life. She is a woman that now makes the most of everything she commits to and exerts every effort to achieve her goals.
Griggs paid for her seat at the 2006 WSOP Ladies Event last month by winning a single table satellite. She parlayed that into a 59th place money finish out of the record field of 1128 players.
In the interview to the local television station Kelli Griggs said she was ready to compete against professional poker players. The only concern she has is making sure she uses this moment to be a responsible spokesperson for women, poker and cancer awareness.
Ten percent of the prize pool from the event, along with a separate donation from the WPT, goes to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.