Athletes Fighting a New BattleFour sports stars committed to health causes.



"You have to give up something to get something." When NBA center Alonzo Mourning announced he was suffering from anemia and a rare kidney disease in 2003, many felt his career was over. But Mourning, then 33, was determined to bounce back. "Once I prepared my mind, my body responded." In addition to getting his transplant, he gave up fried foods, sweets and alcohol, and found a medication to combat the fatigue (reboundfromanemia.com). Then he helped his Miami Heat win the 2006 NBA title.



"Raise money for a cure -- it will help you cope." After NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason and wife Cheryl learned their son Gunnar had cystic fibrosis, they went on the offensive and started a foundation (esiason.org) to increase awareness and fund research for the life-threatening lung disease. Over ten years later, they've raised $50 million. "I don't care if it's a car wash, bake sale or lemonade stand, collectively we can have a major impact," Esiason says.



"Don't ignore your symptoms." NHL center Rem Murray dismissed his neck spasms, but an ER visit revealed cervical dystonia, a disabling movement disorder. After a year and a half of treatment and physical therapy, Murray was on the ice fighting for the Stanley Cup. "I tried to stay positive and never felt sorry for myself." For more info: dystonia-foundation.org.



"Work with a doctor." The 12th inning of a crucial playoff game, Dodgers v. Mets: Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda had reason to be stressed, but his body just felt wrong, like a wet dishrag. Later, a doctor visit revealed hypertension. Now Lasorda is urging others to take it seriously ( bpcoachapproach.com). "God gave me a warning, and I realized it. That's what I'm trying to do -- tell people to talk to a doctor about lifestyle changes and medication."