Over 500 patrons enjoyed the second annual Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Wine Tasting Gala on February 17th at the Florida Theatre. The evening featured an exceptional collection of top vineyards pouring over 100 special selections, food tastings provided by local favorite restaurants, live music and a silent auction. Over $65,000 was raised to support the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation, which assists local families who have a child suffering from leukemia or cancer.

A particularly touching portion of the night was when a couple who have a young child with cancer took the microphone. They told the story of their son, Hunter, and how even a middle class family can be forced to downsize their home, car and lifestyle in order to financially cover the costs related to their child’s illness as well as continue to pay their monthly bills.

The Jay Fund also found other ways to incorporate the children currently receiving treatment into the evening. Each guest was given a wine glass with a handmade wine charm from the children at the Nemours Children’s Oncology unit. The names and ages of the young artists were written on each one.

“This cause is dear to my heart as is the Jacksonville community” said Tom Coughlin, president and founder of the Jay Fund and head coach of the New York Giants. “I am thrilled to be here and see the community rally together like a team to support these children in need.”

The Jay Fund is named in honor of Jay McGillis, a special young man who played football at Boston College under Coughlin. McGillis died of leukemia at the age of 21. Through exceptional adversity and ultimate tragedy brought about by this fatal illness, Jay and his family set an example of courage and dignity that would forever leave its mark on those who knew him. Well over one million dollars has been contributed by the Jay Fund to local Jacksonville families fighting the battle against childhood cancer.

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