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New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony surprises cancer patient’s family with car for Christmas (Video)

New York Knick captain and star forward Carmelo Anthony decided to surprise a cancer patient with a brand new car for Christmas.

Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks may have lost the battle against the Boston Celtics on Christmas Day at Madison Square Garden, in his team’s 119-114 loss, but, in the end, he won the war.

Prior to tip-off, Melo, in conjunction with his foundation, the Garden of Dreams foundation, and Kia, gifted a brand new car to 17-year old fan and cancer patient Jarrell Lara (video above). Melo handed the keys to the car to Jarrell’s mother, Anne.

Via Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN:

“I don’t think you can put that in words,” Anthony said. “That is a family that I have gotten a chance to know. My foundation donated a car to them, working with Kia [and the Garden of Dreams] … and just to see the expression on their faces, the son, one of the kids wanted to cry but held it in … that is what it is all about.”

When Knicks players took families in need on holiday shopping sprees last week, Melo met the Lara family. Jarrell suffers from Langerhans cell histiocytosis, a rare form of cancer that can damage tissue.

Jarrell has no intentions of surrendering and was completely in shock when he heard the news of the new transportation.

“I thought someone was punking me,” Jarrell told MSGNetworks.com of what he thought when Anthony told the family to come over to the loading dock ramp at the Garden where the car was parked. “It hasn’t sunk in. It’s a blessing from God. There are so many people [that] Carmelo Anthony can help, and he chose to help me. It’s the greatest Christmas you could ask for.”

“I’m a strong person,” Jarrell added. “I never thought I wouldn’t make it. I had some tough days, but on those days, knowing Carmelo had my back helped me get through.”

Wins, losses, and damaging news are thrown aside when real-life situations hit the sports world smack-dab in the face.

Way to stay Melo, Melo. Tremendous job today.

H/T Twitter, ESPN @NotoriousOHM

 
Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media. Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com