PLEASANTON >> The North State Modified Series (NSMS) is dedicating its 2018 racing season to cancer awareness and research. The “Driving Out Cancer Tour” was inspired by NSMS competitor Rick Avila, 55, of Pleasanton.
Avila first noticed abdominal symptoms of a Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) at the age of 42. He dismissed and ignored the pain for 11 years before going back to the doctor. Three days later he was rushed to surgery to remove tumors in his small intestine. Avila still has many Stage 4 cancer tumors in his liver, which cannot be surgically removed.
Avila receives Octreotide injections every 28 days to prevent spreading and growth of the tumors. Because of the treatment, some of his tumors have been reduced in size from 10-50 percent.
Avila, along the NSMS, want to educate and bring awareness to race fans about cancer and cancer prevention. The cancer ribbon for NETs is zebra stripes. Avila will be piloting a zebra-themed No. 42 modified on the tour this season. He will be spreading the word about his situation as well as other facts about “Driving Out Cancer.”
Race fans will be offered special decals, and North State Modified “Driving Out Cancer” T-shirts will be on sale at each race track NSMS visits during the season. Donations will be accepted during the races or at http://www.valleycare.com/foundation-ways-to-give.aspx. Several drivers, including three-time NSMS champion Darrin Knight of Kelseyville as well as Austin DeRosier of Cloverdale have agreed to donate 10 percent of their winnings to the cause.
The NSMS season opener is May 12 at Shasta Speedway in Anderson.
The North State Modified Series is presented by Protect the Harvest, Lucas Oil, Ward Land Management, Hoosier Tire West, Sunoco Race Fuels, Naake Suspension, Five Star Bodies, Racer Bling, Keyser Racing Products, and Scribner Plastics.
