Packy was an amazing man, as many knew Packy battled Crohn's disease for 7 years and in 2011 was diagnosed with colon cancer. Packy was fighting an uphill battle from the start and lived everyday by his motto NEVER GIVE UP! Never once did Packy complain or ask why me, he just continued to live his life! Packy graduated from Oakton High School in 2005, where he also played football and was then afforded the opportunity to coach and teach at his alma mater. As a coach and teacher, Packy affected so many young men and women's lives. Packy's legacy will continue to live on in all the people he has touched. Packy was voted, unanimously, Oakton High School's Assistant Coach of the Year for the 2012-2013 season. Packy also graduated from Shenandoah University in 2012, while he also played four years of football, with his brother Sean. The Shenandoah University community has always been one of Packy's number one supporters and the brotherhood of the Hornets Football team will forever be in our hearts!
When Never Give Up 26 founder's brother died of colon cancer, she decided to follow his brother's lead and make a difference. She created this 501c(3) nonprofit to honor her brother, support his local community and help families who have loved ones suffering with Crohn's disease or colon cancer. The foundation is named after Patrick Purcell, also known as Packy. During his battle with Crohn's disease and colon cancer, Packy never felt sorry for himself or asked why. Despite his illnesses, he continued to positively impact the lives of those around him.