In the fall of 1993, Eric Montross was a senior at the University of North Carolina and a member of the UNC basketball team. Already a routine visitor to pediatric patients at UNC Hospitals, Eric befriended Jason Clark, a 15-year old cancer patient, and avid Tar Heel fan. The pair became fast friends. During his time in the hospital, Jason came up with a handwritten three-page list of possible improvements to the hospital environment that would positively affect the patients. After losing his nine-month battle with cancer, Eric and Laura Montross and the Clark family were inspired to make Jason’s vision become a reality and started the Eric Montross Basketball Camp in order to raise funds to achieve Jason’s goals.
Over Twenty-five years and $1.8 million dollars later, the Eric Montross camp has far surpassed its original vision and goals.
The impact of the funds raised are felt by the patients at UNC Children’s each day. You can find out more about specific programs that have benefited here.
The Eric and Laura Montross Fund continues as a year-round fundraising effort focused on enhancing UNC Children’s Hospital through the eyes of the children treated there and Jason’s list still serves as a cornerstone for the camp’s mission. Contributions to this year’s camp will support The Be Loud! Sophie Foundation in support of the UNC Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Endowment.
