Every year, the Kell High School football team makes a donation to the WellStar Foundation on behalf of the school’s namesake Carlton “Corky” Kell. For the 10th year, the team presented a check in support of early lung cancer screenings and preventative services at WellStar Health System, totaling $34,000 over the years.
Two decades ago, Kell lost a seven-month battle with lung cancer. Many throughout Cobb County still remember him as beloved football and girls basketball coach at Wheeler High School. Since his passing, he has been honored through the naming of Kell High School, as well as the football stadiums at Kell and Wheeler.
During the September 15 home game, Carole Kell, his widow, stood among the crowd of football players, cheerleaders, athletic staff and fans to receive the check honoring her husband, along with representatives from the WellStar Foundation.
“I wouldn’t miss this game for the world. It means that much to me,” said Carole Kell. “I can’t believe it’s been so long since Corky passed and the community still rallies behind him. It’s such a wonderful feeling knowing he continues to inspire and help others.”
Kell is also known as visionary and co-creator of the Corky Kell Classic, an annual high school football competition that, since its inception 26 years ago, has grown to a three-day, nine-game lineup. In 2014, Kell was posthumously inducted into the Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame alongside some of Atlanta’s most talented, athletic influencers, including Atlanta Braves World Series Champion John Smoltz and former owner of the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks Ted Turner.
To join Kell High School in contributing to the WellStar Foundation’s Corky Kell early detection lung cancer screening fund, visit wellstar.org/give or call 770-956-GIVE (4483).
About WellStar Foundation
For more than 30 years, the WellStar Foundation has been at the forefront of securing life-saving resources for the WellStar Health System, the largest health system in Georgia. As a not-for profit, donations from individuals, businesses and community organizations are critical for WellStar to achieve world-class healthcare. The Foundation reinvests 100 percent of every dollar donated toward initiatives that advance the level of healthcare provided to WellStar communities through improved patient services and assistance for those in need. To learn more, visit wellstar.org/foundation or call 770-956-GIVE (4483).
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