NASCAR Race Driver Scott Lagasse will compete in the Xfinity Race Series, which he calls, “the stepping stones" of the NASCAR Monster Energy Cup Series.
"It’s just a different style of racing we don’t get to do very often so everybody looks forward to coming up and doing this one," he said. “Its really a lot of fun. It gives you the ability to kind of know where you stock up against the best and obviously the goal is to get to the cup series.”
While many know the 36 year old driver on the race course, he also has a passion for helping others prevent something he has experience in his own life.
"I was very fortunate and found colon cancer very early on through luck I say and somebody looking after me," said Lagasse.
It was detected through a colonoscopy. Now it’s a cause dear to his heart, which was why he visited Bellin Health on Thursday. The Cancer Team at Bellin Health is an Outpatient clinic where people visit for radiation or chemotherapy.
"For the patients I think to so see someone who's overcome something like this and who's healthy now who's able to return to something he's passionate about," said Program Coordinator Jennifer Renquin.
Renquin said they have therapy activities for patients and their families, but Lagasse's visit provided something extra.
"We're sitting here and a girl comes by with a guitar and plays music and talks to us," said Peg Neilio recalling the various activities. "One day I was in chemo and a woman came with dog for pet therapy and Scott coming in isn't surprising. Its just joyful people."
Lagasse has also partnered with Bellin Health through his campaign to advocate early detection with cancer screenings. Bellin will have its logo on his car for his race.
Lagasse will race this Sunday at Road America, but he said he's excited to promote his message “Screen Your Machine”at Bellin Health.
