Phil And Amy Display Courage: On And Off The Course

Phil Mickelson has always been a major fan favorite on the PGA Tour. His easygoing, regular guy personality, go for broke playing style and not so chiseled physique make him beloved among the galleries-Everyman in golf shoes.

We're less than 2 days away from the U.S. Open Championship at Bethpage. If there is ever a time and a place where Mickelson will look for and appreciate the support of fans, it's this weekend.-for a very special reason.

By now you know that Phil's wife Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer a few weeks ago. Mickelson has spent as much time with Amy as possible since. She's due to begin cancer treatments July 1st.

Lefty played St. Jude's this past weekend, finishing in a tie for 59th. He's openly stated that Bethpage is one of his favorite places to play; he loves the course and the fans.

Speaking of fans, many of then will no doubt identify with what the Mickelsons are going through. Long Island has one of the highest rates of breast cancer in the nation. Numerous studies confirm this.

My hope is that Amy's treatment will make women even more aware of the need for regular self exams and checkups with their doctor. Cancer of any kind is an enemy that must be defeated. So whether you go to Bethpage or watch the tournament from the couch in your den, say a prayer for Amy and Phil.

The Mickelsons are noted for their charitable efforts. No doubt they will use their celebrity status to fight this cancer AND make others aware with the same intensity Phil demonstrates on the course. No matter where Lefty finishes this weekend, he and Amy deserve our admiration for fighting a very public battle.