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Live From Studio 1A: Derek Fisher Q and A

Posted: Monday, July 23, 2007 10:30 AM by Dan Fleschner
Filed Under:

NBA veteran Derek Fisher appeared on TODAY this morning to talk about his 1-year-old daughter Tatum, who suffers from retinoblastoma, a rare form of cancer in her left eye. WATCH VIDEO

Fisher asked for -- and was granted -- a release from his $20.6 million contract with the Utah Jazz so that he and his wife could move to a city where they could get better care for Tatum. Last week, he signed a 3-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, the team with which he won three NBA titles in 2000, 2001 and 2002.

I caught up with Fisher after his interview with Matt to talk about the support he has gotten from teammates past and present, and to get his thoughts on the NBA referee-gambling scandal (for more on the gambling story, WATCH VIDEO).

Here are excerpts from that conversation:

Q: We could see from the crowd's reaction to you in the playoffs how the fans responded to you and Tatum's story. But you've played in the league since 1996... you have teammates, past and present, all over the league. Have any of them showed particular support?

Derek Fisher: The support we've gotten from my past teammates has been unbelievable. My teammates from last season in Utah have been great, and that's what really impressed me about the team and the community -- and is the biggest part of our success as a team.

Even guys that I haven't played with have helped out with a call and have offered to do absolutely anything we need.

From Shaq to Magic Johnson to Kobe Bryant, they've been so supportive. Even Karl Malone -- we only played one season together, but he's been so supportive of the family.

The support we've gotten from Commissioner Stern and the NBA has also been unbelievable.

People have told us they're praying for us and thinking of us. It's really been overwhelming. And hopefully people will get the bigger part of the story, that this is really about the health of children and the family.

Q: Turning to the ongoing investigation into Tim Donaghy, the NBA ref who resigned last week and is reportedly the focus of an FBI gambling probe. What was your first reaction when you heard there might be an NBA referee involved in a gambling scandal?

Derek Fisher: I was surprised, but that's not really the word. You hear so many stories about sports and so many negative things with pro sports, that it's easy to brush them off.

Q: Conspiracy theories?

Derek Fisher: Exactly. So at first, I figured this would just blow over and thought maybe we wouldn't hear much about it afterwards.

Q: What about when Donaghy's name came out?

Derek Fisher: Even when the name and the photo came out, I think -- because of the way I think and act -- I had no real reaction of any kind. But when I got a chance to read some of the facts, I started to think a little differently.

It's clearly being handled by the FBI and the NBA, and until the investigation puts everything in context, it's hard to comment. Nobody knows what position [Donaghy] was placed in, where he stands and his family stands.

With the FBI and NBA working together with other law enforcement, it 's safe to say that they'll get all the facts.

Has the image of the league been tainted? Probably so. We'll just have to wait and see what happens.

Q: Did you find yourself thinking back to games you played in that Donaghy worked, wondering if something fishy had gone on? One example people have talked about is a playoff game in 2002 when Sacramento beat you and the Lakers, and Shaq called the outcome at the time "predetermined."

Derek Fisher: No, I didn't think about that. I remember a few times this past season when he reffed games, but that's it. Maybe because I've played so many years in the league, I don't remember.

I can't say I recall any games when the outcome would have been any different. There's a big difference between an official missing a call and being associated with something like this. It would add sensationalism to talk that way.

No other officials should be judged based on this alleged situation.

Q: How should the league respond?

Derek Fisher: Until they find out what happened, it's tough to say what the league should do. Commissioner Stern has said that his response will be based on what they learn in this investigation. We've seen how they cracked down on working to improve the image of the league, and I'm sure he'll do the same thing with this. He's a talented and smart man who knows where the league needs to go.

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Comments

Paul Harvey talks about "The rest of the story" which is the part this piece missed. Utah Jazz owner Larry Miller was the catalyst for Derek being in the public spotlight.  Us locals saw unparalleled character from someone who by todays business standards opposed the norm and showed real dignity and compassion in releasing Derek from his contract. How many NBA owners have that much class?----1.

Kent Anderson, Riverdale,UT (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 11:27 AM)

My 18 year old daughter is a 10 year cancer survivor.  Every sacrifice is worth having a healthy child.  Mr. Fisher and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.  Unfortunately, it's the life-long effects that we're dealing with now.  My daughter wanted to get back in the swing of things and took 2 part-time jobs this summer - she was fired Friday night from one of them for being "slow" and missing work - you see, nearly 3 years of chemo from the age of 8 to almost 11 have left their marks - she suffers constant pain and catches everything that goes around.  So, while she was happily performing her duties - disguising any pain or discomfort - her bosses saw only slowness.  Even though she begged for more hours - they only saw the hours she missed.  I wish more could be done to address long-term effects of childhood chemotherapy.  Thank you.

Suzann Erwin, Corpus Christi, Tx (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 12:06 PM)

I lost my dad when I was 6 1/2 from cancer so I can only imagine the concern of a child with me having a 7 and 8 year old.  I do not know if you have looked at alternative ways besides chemo on her treatment if not the site and research at the site I have provided may be of use to you.  I hope that she continues to improve.  You are encouraging to the NBA in what you have done.  To your success!!!

Wayne Shepard, Tyler, TX (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 12:27 PM)

I must have missed something in the Derek Fisher story, because while I think the premise for the story, millionaire gives up job to make a home closer to medical care for daughter, is a good one I don't get it.  His team the Jazz must not have had a problem with him being away and with his child,since he was late and played in a play off game, and as a millionaire he could have made his home anywhere in the country.  He's not home during the season much anyway because of the way the NBA runs, and what exactly did he give up.  He left one NBA team, for another with a multi year, multi million dollar contract.

Mark Grimes Jesup GA (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 12:35 PM)

My prayers are with your family.  

Rhonda Johnson (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 12:36 PM)

I am very pleased and proud that Mr. Fisher "chose" family over his job. I am also very impressed. A lot of athletes just want more money, Derek wants his daughter to be better and live a healthy life. Great father...an example of what fathers should be. I am lucky enough that my husband is the same kind of man - family comes first no matter what. The reason - family is what is going to support you in good times and bad. Mr. Fisher and his family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that his daughter has a full recovery and her brother never has the cancer. May God bless your family.

Heather, Pawtucket, RI (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 12:55 PM)

Derek, I am pleased that you are being a man of God for your family.  Continue being Godly example.

CW, Columbus, Ohio (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 1:18 PM)

Since the treatment is still in the experimental stages done only in New York, would it of been better if you (Fisher) could of found a place on a team around NY? As I understand it, if she needs further treatment you will have to return to Sloan-Kettering for treatment in New York.

Sam Thompson, Draper, Utah (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 1:57 PM)

My son Creighton was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma in November 2005 at the age of 15 months.  He, like Derek Fisher's daughter, had to have his left eye removed.  He is soon to be 3 and after spending last summer going through chemotherapy and radiation, there is nothing that my little boy can't do.  We travel frequently to Los Angeles for follow up examinations and he is under the care of excellent physicians. As a parent who's been there, you're in my thoughts and prayers!  

Janine Patterson, Albuquerque, New Mexico (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 2:13 PM)

Derek:

You are a true example of what a good father is. I am a parent and a grandparent and admire you and thank God there are still people like you.

Let's all wake up and show our children what a REAL hero is. God bless you and your family.

Sylvia B (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 2:18 PM)

First of all, Derek Fisher is, in my opinion, one of the class acts of the NBA.  I love his work ethic, his sportsmanship, his gamesmanship and his attitude.  He has set a great example both as a player and as a parent.  While I will never doubt that his daughter's well being is at the top of his priority list, I think his release from the Utah Jazz raises some questions.  We have a world class cancer facility in Salt Lake City where his daughter could have received excellent follow-up care.  Was it really necessary to move to LA?  Was this move more about wanting to join Kobe Bryant and the Lakers?  Did Larry Miller want to free up money and allow an older Derek Fisher a way out of his contract?  I wish Derek, his daughter and family well.  As a parent, I would never want to have to go through what they have gone through.  However, I think there are some questions regarding his move to LA that need to be answered.

JR, Salt Lake City, Utah (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 2:51 PM)

Derk:  I don't have a question for you, but a loving comment.  My heart goes out to you and your family and I do hope your daughter will be just fine (I'm sure she will).  I just wanted to say how very much I respect your decision to put your family and your little girl first !  You are a fantastic husband and father and while basketball is a great big part of your life, you seem to get what some other people don't and that is - your family IS your life ! ;-)  Our prayers are with you, God bless you and take care !!!

Kelli, Los Angeles CA (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:04 PM)

Kent Anderson from Riverdale, UT - you are absolutely right about Larry Miller.  He should be commended for doing what's right and not worrying about money and business.  What a great owner and human being!

Derek, I'm sure your fans (including me) are ecstatic to see you back with the Lakers!!!  Our support and prayers are with you and your family.  We wish your daughter, Tatum, continued recovery and health.

Naila Currie, Walnut, CA (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:11 PM)

Derek, I am from Arkansas so I have always been a big fan of yours.  You are a great example to the NBA league and to people around the country of what a true man and father should be.  I wish you and all of your family the very best and will pray for tatums healing.

Jeff Arnold Centerton, Ar. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:31 PM)

Our 8 year old son Mitchell is a 3 year cancer survivor of Retinoblastoma. He had his left eye removed 3 days before his 5th birthday, he went through 6 months of chemotherapy and now has a prosthetic eye and wears glasses to protect his "good" eye. Our families lives stopped in its tracks when we found out. It was a very emotional year for Mitchell, his two younger sisters, Mom and Dad and all the grandparents. Your daughter is going to be just fine having a father and mother who love her and care about her well-being as much as you do. Your family will be much stronger from all of this. Ours is and I'm thankful to say that Mitchell is a normal healthly 8 year old boy that loves to play soccer, baseball, basketball, swimming, skateboarding, etc. Also, they say this cancer is rare however, I personlly know 6 other children in the Columbus area that have been diagnosed with retinoblastoma. I would love to have heard Mr. Fisher speak more on his daughters treatments and the importance of early detection of Retinoblastoma, because it can save a child's life. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Sherry Rosenfeld, Columbus, Ohio (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:36 PM)

Being a Laker and NBA fan in Southern California I've gotten the pleasure of watching Derek develop not only as a basketball player, but most importantly the wonderful person that he has become. He has exemplefied what being a 'role-model' athlete is, never dispairaging his teammates, his focus on hard work and team play, and an intense focus on community work and charity events. With Derek it started at home, legendary announcer Chick Hearn used to tell stories about Derek's upbringing that helped shape him and I remember how he would describe how decent Derek would treat everyone he came in contact with as they traveled together with the team.

At a time in sports when we only seem to hear all that's bad about it, it is refreshing to hear about someone placing family first. God bless Tatum and the whole Fisher family.

Mike, Apple Valley, CA (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:43 PM)

Derek Fisher is a hero.  In days when sports figures no longer come close to being heros for the youth of our country, Mr. Fisher is one.  Maybe all the professional sports figures of this country should take example of him.  

Thank you for being a shinning example of a human being.  Best of luck to you and your family.

D Epport, Hawthorne, California (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 3:43 PM)

To Derek and his family: My parayer and thoughts are with your family. Tatum has a lot of love and support from the man above. God Bless you all.

Tammy (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:07 PM)

i have followed derek since he started playing in little rock, ar!  he has done nothing but great things since he left arkansas, proud of him and what he's done!  my prayers are with you, guess i'm a laker fan now, was before but more of one now!

julie-north carolina (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:22 PM)

What makes Derek Fisher an awesome guy has nothing to do with his status, money, or anything else.  He gave up his job...period.  When I first heard about little Tatum, he said that he didn't care whether or not he worked in the NBA.  The Lakers hadn't made him an offer, but that wasn't important to him.  Of course, many people are not able to have that option, but since he does and he did, I say...HAT'S OFF!!

Meagan W, Houston TX (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 4:57 PM)

I think what Mr. Fisher did was the only option that a father (or mother for that matter) would have in a situation such as his.  However, I do have one serious problem with this story.  What happened to all the parents that make this type of decision on a daily basis, with much greater financial and personal consequences??  Mr. Fisher gave up a $21 million contract to care for his daughter, but signed with another team for $14 million.  What about the families that uproot their entire lives to care for a sick child and don't have access to the same resources as Mr. Fisher, but still do it anyway.  They lose homes, jobs, savings, etc.  Often losing their homes to foreclosure and going bankrupt.  What options do these parents have??  But yet they do it despite the prospect of losing all they have (literally).  

I applaud Mr. Fisher for his decision but I find this story a slap in the face to all those that have made this difficult decision without the prospect of "picking up the pieces" by signing another multi-million dollar contract?  And for that matter what about all those parents who are faced with the same situation and can't be there for their children because they are not multi-millionaires???  Those that don't have the option of declining a $21 million contract to be with your children, because you can???  Maybe it's time for the news to focus on the real HERO parents that make this very same decision every day, with REAL consequences for their decisions!!  Step up to the plate NBC and focus on the real issues.  

Please keep in mind that I completely applaud and have a great amount of admiration for Mr. Fisher and the decision that he made; it is the right decision.  I did not intend on taking away from his decision, I'm just amazed at the coverage that this story has gotten.  

If Mr. Fisher wants to help out, maybe he can help the thousands of other parents that make this decision every day that don't have his resources.  They need a little help too, and it wouldn't take a $14 million contract to cure a family's problems.  One game's pay for Mr. Fisher could relieve the financial strain for many families that face the challenge that he has faced.  Then maybe they would all turn out as well as his has.  He would be the perfect person for this because he understands what it is like.  I wish him and family the very best and I hope his daughter does as well as possible in her recovery.  

Bob G., Fair Haven, NJ (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 5:01 PM)

Derek, you are truly an example of what a father is.  Anyone can be a daddy, but it takes a real man to be a father.  You are living proof that not all Black NBA players are out for the big bucks.  I can only conclude that you were raised right.  God bless you and your family. I, like many others, will be praying for you and your family.  In response to Bob G., I think you miss the point of the story.  I think the story was done to show that not all celebrities are about monetary gain.  Sir, if you want to be technical about the whole thing.  What about the celebs who charge a fee for their sigs or the celebs who shun the fans not realizing that those fans are the ones that help pay their salaries.  People make choices everyday for the good of their children and families.  I have no children, but that was my choice.  I have been frowned upon because I have more freedom to do as I please.  While I don't condone anyone for having children I shouldn't be scorned for NOT having any.  Bottom line sir, we ALL have choices to make.  Don't spend time feeling insulted because no one gave you your 15 min. of fame for making a decision that best served your family.  That was and always will be YOUR CHOICE.

Jane P,, Charleston, SC (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 6:07 PM)

This man is a winner, no matter how it comes out. he is a "Man" and no doubt he is a man of Faith and knows GOD will provide,  I thank GOd for men And women of this kind of Love for family. His family will be in our prayers, and many others.
Thank you for being an insperation for us all

varner moon greensburg ky, (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 6:35 PM)

Mr. Fisher,
 You are truly a great man.I believe, as role models, most pro athletes are found vastly lacking. You, however, are what all fathers should be, actually what all men should be.Bless you and your family, my prayers are with your daughter.

Dan P.,Terre Haute, IN. (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 6:41 PM)

No, Derek Fisher is not a hero; that term is exploited much too often. What he is however, is a man among men. He has placed his child/family above all else, while maintaining composure and perspective. To him, his daughter and his family; I ask God to bless you all and to guide you as He works in His own way.

G-Man, Springfield, IL (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 7:33 PM)

God Bless you!  Our country (And children especially) needs real role models and heroes who have put life into proper priorities - God, family, and the rest will follow.

Kris in Ouray, Colorado (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 7:38 PM)

It's refreshing to see a man take a stand to do what is right by HIS family. It doesn't matter if he gave up a $20,000, $200,000 or $2,000,000- the fact remains, he gave it up for his daughter. He's also brought to the public's attention a rare form of cancer found in children so that others may be educated about the signs/symptons/treatment. It's an inspiration to see a man of God follow his heart and have enough faith, that it will all work out as it should.

Nancy, North Carolina (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 8:15 PM)

Derek,
From one father to another with a child with Retinoblastoma, me and my family understand all that your family has went through.  We are from Arkansas your home state which makes this more personally to us.  Derek, your decisions to do what is right for your child, shows the true example of what a father should be.
Our son, Zachary was 6 months old when he was diagnosed with Bi-Lateral Retinoblastoma in 2003. God has truly blested us with Zachary's treatment as he continues to be treated at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis.  We are humbled by God and say that no new tumors has developed in the last year.  They tell us a couple of more years and maybe the worst will be over.  The biggest thing in reading about Tatum was the time that it took doctors to correctly diagnose her cancer.  Awareness about Retinoblastoma is a big thing for us and trying to spread the word.  We know that you are a great basketball player but you have shown everybody that you are an even better father.  Our family wishes yours the best throughout this journey.  In our heart we know that God is going to do great things with Tatum!

Tim Noblett, Plainview, AR (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 8:15 PM)

Yea...everyone is praising Derek Fisher, so what...He is not special there are many fathers and mothers who are far from rich and even live in poverty/welfare making minimum wage who would walk away from there only means of support to be with there child...me included, he`s nothing special..in fact when he talked the Jazz out of his contract he all of a sudden re-signed with the lakers..before he was giving the impression he was not going to play ball for the sake of his child..in my opinion Derek Fisher is a liar and is exploiting his daughter for sympathy...if he had walked away from all those millions of dollars, retired from the NBA to care for his child then I could respect that as a man among men..but thats not the case, it may have been the intention of Derek but I also feel that he double crossed the Utah Jazz...I`m a big laker fan but no longer a fan of Derek Fisher he is a liar his motives for leaving Utah was not exactly honest...I pray for the speedy recover for his daughter my prayers are with the family but as far as Derek he needs to soul search...yeah...some testimony Derek

D Laramore, Los Angeles, Ca (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 8:57 PM)

I completely agree with Bob G. from NJ.  I applaud Mr. Fisher for his commitment to his family but there are many families who do the same with extreme financial consequences.  It would be great for you to do a story on where families with sick or disabled children could go for financial assistance.  So many of them make more than any government assistance allows but medical bills are not figured into the debt load.  My prayers are with Mr. Fisher & his family.

Mary Ferguson (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 9:11 PM)

If you research the issue beyond this one article, you'll see that when Fisher left the Jazz, he said that if he got picked up by another team in area close to a hospital, he would play, but that he realized that he was older and a team may not want him.  Like most parents, his first priority is his family, and I don't believe that he is the one who made a huge media deal about this.  He made a choice many would make if they could, and he was and is a good example for younger NBA players and young men in general.  It appears that he was honest with the Jazz and with the public.  I applaud him, and the thousands of other parents, for persevering through what must be a scary and trying time.

Jenifer, Tallahassee, FL (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 10:34 PM)

Derek Fisher seems like a nice enough guy, however I don't see what is special about him leaving his job to care for his child. With his established income and the access to unlimited health care, it seems to me to be a simple decision.  If you really want to read about a family that is sacrificing for their child, check out caringbridge.com and visit 'carolineruby'. This is a website set up in hospitals for people and caretakers to develop a site to share information and receive messages. Trust me, you'll hear about a family doing everything for their sick child, and not once think they are doing anything special. This family, and many just like them are true heroes.

Cathy Pepin, Greensboro NC (Sent Monday, July 23, 2007 11:29 PM)

My heartfelt prayers to Tatum and family. I wish them the best of health, healthcare and continued great decisions made as a family. Mr. Fisher is very blessed to be able to choose Tatum over a job.
Wouldn't most, if not all of us, choose their child's health over work, if we could?
Not to diminish anything regarding Mr. Fisher or his family, it does make me think.
I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma last May. I'm a wife of 21 years and mother of triplets, age 12. We spent last summer, once a week, 68 miles one way from our home, for my chemo., for 12 weeks. If my cancer returns, the only option is a stem cell transplant. We do not have the funds for childcare while my husband works (he must) and I might have a lengthy hospital stay. Money should not be an issue when dealing with a serious illness but, it is. That said, I don't understand why Mr. Fisher left Utah. He was "out of work" for 3 weeks. His daughter's doctor's are in NYC. His new job is in LA. No offense intended but, where is the sacrifice ? How was his family and Tatum's health chosen over a job ?
I literally have no options available to me at this time if my cancer returns. One health crisis will put us in a position to lose our home and only source of income. If Mr. Fisher were me, what would he choose: his own life OR the well being of his family ? I respectfully disagree that Mr. Fisher sacrificed a thing.

B Keller, Three Bridges, NJ (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 12:45 AM)

As a parent of a child who was diagnosed with retinoblastoma at the age of 11 months, I completely understand your decision. I would also like to thank you for helping make others aware of retinoblastoma thru your story. Our son had to have his eye enucleated and is doing great. Would be more than happy to share our experiences with this disease if you ever need to talk with someone who has had a child go thru this. Have enclosed our website for our childs story and prognosis.

Lisa Mayo Lagrange Ga (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 1:18 AM)

Please look into Dr Burzynski's website and clinic in Houston TX. His drug has done wonders in childhood tumors including retinoblastoma with minimal side effects compared to chemotherapy. Being in clinical trials the drug is still considered experimental...but do your own research and get in touch with the patient group.

S Patel, Houston (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:22 AM)

For a parent what Derek did, no matter what the money or job "situation" is he made a choice to do whatever he coulddo for his daughter. Some people have gone through the same things or maybe not, but NONE of us actually know the decisions and anguish that this particular family has been going through.  I for one was very happy to know that Derek and his family know exactly where they need to go first and that is to their faith in God.  Remember Fisher family that there a lot of people who are lifting you in the their prayers, and the Throne of God is getting bombarded and He will answer.

Rosie Fernandez, Redlands,CA (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:23 AM)

I've posted once already (and was surprised my post appeared, but that's another story - lol).  I still maintain, that no matter what sacrifice a parent makes - and Mr. Fisher has truly made one - any and all sacrifices are worth it for a healthy child.  For those who have downplayed Mr. Fisher's sacrifice and tried to imply that he is "using" his child's disease - well, I can only pray that you are never selected to join our special club - that of being parents to a child with cancer.  Jane P., on the surface, I think you may have misunderstood Bob G.'s post.  He truly understands the plight that we face - and the choices we make to ensure our children survive.  I'm a single parent - and I lost everything I owned to care for my child.  I don't regret any of that - because the end result is my daughter is alive.  But it's not a "win" in the terms that we can truly celebrate the victory - for we still mourn to this day those who did not "win" their battle but died slow, painful deaths.  

Mr. Fisher will be a role model to many people - and hopefully those that are inspired by his story will do what is necessary - fund research to cure this horrible affliction our children are dealt.  I admire the sacrifice Mr. Fisher made - and it was indeed a sacrifice.  I lost everything I owned, but I have a child that is a 10 year cancer survivor.  Any sacrifice I may have made was, and is, worth it.  

On my daughter's Make A Wish trip, we were admitted to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City when she developed pneumonia in both lungs - a result of the chemo killing both the good things and the bad things.  It is a wonderful facility.  But a child battling cancer needs specialized treatment.  Chemotherapy is poison - as stated, it kills the bad stuff but it also kills the good.  It takes all the efforts of a specialized pediatric oncology team to save a child.  It will also take their efforts for the rest of the child's life to monitor after-effects of childhood cancer treatments.  I'm glad Mr. Fisher is able to seek the best possible care for his child.  We were fortunate in having treatment at Texas Children's Cancer Clinic in Houston.  During my child's first year of chemo, we made the 260 mile round trip to Houston three times a week for her treatments.  I would have travelled further if I thought my child needed better treatment.  Please don't judge someone's decision to seek better treatment for their child - unless you walk in that person's shoes - you can't really say what you would do if you faced the same tragedy.  

The bottom line, to me, is - Mr. Fisher - you are a hero to me.  I know bad things happen to good people, and I know that these bad things can be used for the good of everyone.  Mr. Fisher, by sharing his tragedy, will be beneficial for all of us with children whose lives have been touched by cancer - hopefully, people will read his story - realize how widespread this devastation is, and then realize they can help - by donating to research.  I applaud Mr. Fisher for helping this - by sharing his story - and by telling of his sacrifice.  Thank you, Mr. Fisher, and may God continue to bless you - as he has blessed my daughter and I.  

Suzann Erwin, Corpus Christi, Tx (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:34 AM)

While I do understand where it may be seen that Mr. Fisher is or is not a hero in this sense; I will say that he is a class act and phenomenal father.
For those of you implying that NBC should have ran a story with other parents of sick children, let's consider the society you live in , if Matt Lauer was to interview some unknown person, more that half of the vieweres who tuned in wouldn't have considered watching. Derek did not only leave his job in Utah, he used is status and access to media houses to bring awareness to this disease. He said he would go to a place where he can better access treatment for his daughter, he happened to get a job close as well, don't crucify him for that.
My heart goes out to people who are in the same or similar positions but are also financially impaired but Mr. Fisher just happens to be a NBA player, he is not the only financially secured person who has to deal with difficulties he is just one of the few who are able to use their status in society to bring attention to a disease this rare. So many people would not have heard anything about this disease because they don't necessarily watch NBC. Many sports fans heard about this by watching ABC, ESPN, TNT, NBATV or other NBA related sports channels or by listening to sports radio. Let's give credit where due, he made the decision to put his family first, stop griping about the fact that he is financially better able to do so than some others.
You all live in America where watching Lindsay Lohan pass out drunk or Paris Hilton go in and out of jail. If Derek was not a basketball player you would not have heard about this.

If you want to bash a media outlet for not reporting this, start with E - Entertainment Television, they can tell Paris's every move by reporting about her every night in one way or another or dedicated completed programs to Eva Longoria and Tony Parker but are unable to set aside a Half and Hour in the least to help educate their viewers on these things. Don't blame NBC for interview the individual whose interview they knew would get the most attention therefore informing the most people about this. Let's be serious, if they interview some unknown from Vermont, most of you would not have even heard about it.

Derek Fisher made his decision the fact that he chose a profession which allows him to do what he is doing with more financial security gives you no right to judge him. Athletes are paid well but we all can't be athletes and that does not give us the right to judge them. Some of the site addressess provided will end up on Derek's website and that will be the first time alot of people hear about them, the first time Derek spoke about this disease was the first time alot people even heard about his disease, let's all be greatful that he through his situation is bringing more attention to this disease, now more people are having there children checked out. This disease was said to be rare because very few people notice differences and have them checked now that they know what it could possibly be, they are going to have their children checked. In ten years this disease will not be so rare because Derek Fisher Spoke up.

Melesia (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:41 AM)

On July 22, 2007, HBO Real Sports/Frank Deford profiled an "amazing five year old golf phenom who lost an eye to a rare eye cancer...but who still plays golf-- and beats seasoned adult golfers!"
While I cannot say for "sure" that "retinoblastoma" was the diagnosis......I feel fairly certain that it may have been. (But, frankly, until the Deford segment, I had never heard the term. But, once heard....)
So, Derek Fisher should see this segment as a "real life" success story.
According to Frank Deford's report, the little golfer now has an excellent prognosis for his young life.
And, clearly, every parent on the planet wants Derek's beautiful baby girl to have a wonderful prognosis for life as well.

My prayers are with his family.

Betty Noel, Washington, DC (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:51 AM)

I find it admirable that Derek Fisher gave up his career to be with his family in this time of need.  It is completely irrelevant that he happens to be a millionaire.  He is a class act and the world needs a lot more like him.  

L Goodwin St. Paul, Minnesota (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 10:57 AM)

after reading mr. fisher story about his baby girl all i can say is that is a real man who really love his family.god bless you and your family,

alma hall dallas,tx. (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 12:01 PM)

First I want to say your faith is in the right place with GOD.  My 15 month old dauther was diagnosed with leukemia, she was not given a good prognosis, but I believed in GOD, prayed and believed it would all work out.  She is now 25 years old with a healthly happy son of her own.  

Other than your wife noticing a glow in one of your dauthers eyes what were the symptoms to this disorder.

Tell your wife to keep her head up stay in pray and praise GOD for making her the good mother that she is in noticing something that had to be difficult to think anything was wrong.  She followed her mind, heart and instincts as a woman and it payed off for her.  Many prayer and well wishes to your wife, daughter and family

Robin Jones, Detroit, Michigan (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 1:45 PM)

Derek,
I've read your story and I watched your interview with Matt on the Today Show. It is NBA professionals such as yourself, who brings dignity and class to the sport.  
In addition, you are an excellent example for today's fathers. Continue your quest for your beautiful family.  Many Blessings.

Gerri Rivers (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:32 PM)

Mr. Fisher I work for a state agency that helps people who have visual impairments.  I believe that you made the right decison for your child.  You are a good father. Many others do not have an opportunty to get the best care.  There are many devices that can help your daughter to be able to function well with low vision.  You need to look at low vision stores and to contact the VIPS organzaition in your state.  VIPS is an organization that provides support to children and families of childern who have difficulites with thier vision.

Lisa Pikeville KY (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 3:45 PM)

Sending best wishes for a positive outcome for Derek's little girl.  Here is a pro athlete with his priorities in order.  Please take it easy, Derek, on the Knicks and Nets!  You are a classy individual in a society sorely lacking.

A. Strum, New City, NY (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 6:01 PM)

Derek, I want to take my hat off to you because as a husband and father you are ultimately responsible for your family. All the money in the world can't buy the love and support your family need. I pray to God that Tatum will be ok and live a normal life as well her twin brother.

Dave Moore, Houston, Tx (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 9:09 PM)



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