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Former Panthers player Kurt Coleman returns to Charlotte to spread awareness of breast cancer

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former Panthers safety Kurt Coleman, now a member of the New Orleans Saints, was back in Charlotte doing his part to raise awareness and money for the fight against breast cancer.

“You know we're all in this boat, we all can have a part in this and we all can do something about it,” Coleman told Channel 9.

[RELATED: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer]

Most often, breast cancer impacts women. However, less than 1 percent of breast cancer patients in the United States are men.

Kurt Coleman’s father, Ron Coleman, is a 12-year breast cancer survivor.

Ron Coleman surprised his son Friday at the sixth annual Benefit for the Cure fundraiser he hosted at Napa on Providence.

Some of Coleman's former Panthers teammates were also there to lend their support for the cause.

Proceeds from the event go toward breast cancer research and finding a cure.

“I want you to know there's a support system out there for you and there are people that are caring for you that love you and that are fighting for the research to happen, so that we can make a difference so that this may not happen for the next generation, for our children and our children's children,” Coleman said.

The event raised money for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

Coleman, who was released by the Panthers in the offseason, said the Charlotte community is still important to him.

He also shared a message for anyone battling cancer.

“If you're being diagnosed, if you're already a survivor, whatever the battle is, I want you to know how strong you are and the example that you're setting for everyone around the world,” Coleman said.

The Making Strides walk is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 20, and Channel 9 anchor Allison Latos will be hosting.

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