San Diego native Eric Allen was regarded as one of the elite cornerbacks over his stellar 14 year career. A six-time Pro Bowler, two-time All Pro, Allen retired with 54 interceptions. He is in the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame and was inducted into the Breitbard Hall of Fame by the San Diego Hall of Champions. Currently, he is an ESPN Analyst.
To those close to him, he is more than a Football Legend, he is a Husband, a Father, an Uncle, a Brother, a Friend, a Mentor and a Philanthropist. And to those battling Multiple Sclerosis, he and his wife, Lynn, represent hope. Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable and often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include impairment of speech and muscular coordination, severe fatigue, numbness and blurred vision.
Eric and Lynn’s nephew, Alfonso Carranza, was diagnosed with MS in 2002. Alfonso is currently in a wheelchair and caring for his children can be a challenge but this has not deterred Alfonso from living his life to the fullest. He is training for the Peace-Love-Run Marathon in San Diego and his goal is to walk again.
Tyler Campbell, son of Hall of Famer Earl Campbell, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis while playing football at San Diego State University. “The leadership the Allen Family demonstrates using their NFL platform to create awareness and funding for MS inspires us all. The Campbell Family hails the Allens as our Unsung Heroes in the fight to put MS out of business. We are so grateful for their dedication and commitment to serving the MS community,” states Campbell. Alfonso and Tyler are the faces of MS that drive Eric and his wife, Lynn, to host Flavors of the Gaslamp. The 8th Annual Flavors of the Gaslamp is slated for Saturday, June 13 at the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina. Flavors features the culinary creations of San Diego’s finest restaurants and the opportunity to meet NFL stars while raising awareness and funding for Pro Player Foundation and the highlighted charity, the National MS Society.
Families dealing with a loved one diagnosed with MS may face economic difficulties due to the high cost of medical needs. Students should not have to choose between an education or medication so Flavors supports a scholarship program with the National MS Society. Please visit www.proplayerfoundation.org to learn more about Flavors of the Gaslamp and their efforts in raising awareness and support for Multiple Sclerosis.
Flavors of the Gaslamp 2015 will be hosted by ESPN Analyst Eric Allen, Former SDSU Running Back and MS Ambassador Tyler Campbell, and San Diego Chargers Defensive Coordinator John Pagano with special guest, NFL Hall of Famer Earl Campbell.
