In addition to the opportunity for collectors to own some of the best sports memorabilia in existence, the Mastro Auctions' Live Sports sale will support efforts spearheaded by Derrek Lee's 1st Touch Foundation to assist individuals diagnosed with the Lebers Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). Lee began 1st Touch because he wanted to help the community in his hometown of Sacramento, CA by building a youth center and providing an environment that fosters learning. In addition to its educational efforts, 1st Touch also supports Project 3000, a national effort to identify and offer genetic testing to every person affected by Lebers Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is an extremely rare disease that causes severe vision loss and blindness. In 2006, Lee's daughter, Jada, was diagnosed with the disorder but because there is still a lot unknown about LCA, doctors are looking at other causes for her visual impairment. Information gathered through Project 3000 continues to minimize the ambiguity surrounding LCA, and aids scientists in their search for a cure. Mastro Auctions is teaming up with Derrek Lee to benefit this worthwhile cause. The Live Sports auction will feature several game worn and autographed items donated by Mr. Lee. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this portion of the auction as well as 100% of the $100 Live Sports Auction entrance fee will be donated to the 1st Touch Foundation. Mastro Auctions is underwriting the entire event so that all admission fees and prices realized for the Derrek Lee items will directly benefit the 1st Touch Foundation.
Prior to the auction on the evening of Friday, August 1, all items to be auctioned will be on display at the Mastro Auctions booth at the National Sports Convention at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. For more information or to purchase the advance charity admission to the event, call Mastro Auctions at 630-472-1200 or go to www.mastroauctions.com for additional details.
