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Vince Papale, a former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver who beat the odds to become the oldest rookie in NFL history, will share his inspiring life story -- including his triumphant battle with colorectal cancer -- at Jefferson HealthCARE-Voorhees, on Wednesday, March 29 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

At the ripe age of 30, while alternating as a substitute teacher and a bartender, Mr. Papale joined the Philadelphia Bells, a since-disbanded minor league football team. Stemming from his stellar play for the Bells, Mr. Papale was invited to a private workout with the Eagles by then coach Dick Vermeil. Impressing coaches and veteran players alike, he was offered a position on the team and went on to play for four seasons.

In 2001, happily retired and enjoying life, he gave in to his wife’s prompting and scheduled a full physical. Due to questionable test results, Mr. Papale was referred to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital for a colonoscopy.

It was at Jefferson University Hospital that he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Vince Papale credits a routine physical and the fact that his cancer was caught in its early stages, for his continued wellbeing today.

At Jefferson HealthCARE-Voorhees, Mr. Papale will be joined by the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital physicians he credits with saving his life. The distinguished threesome consists of: Anthony DiMarino, M.D., director, division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Anthony Infantolino, M.D., FACP, clinical director of Endoscopic Ultrasound and Photodynamic Therapy, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; and Scott D. Goldstein, M.D., director, Colorectal Surgery.

As an added treat Emily Rubin, R.D., division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, will offer tips on colon-healthy foods. Tasty and healthy snacks will also be provided.

Jefferson HealthCARE-Voorhees is located at 443 Laurel Oak Road in Voorhees, N.J. (behind the Ritz Movie Theater). For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-800-JEFF-NOW. Hearing-impaired callers, dial 1-800-654-5984. Or, visit online at www.JeffersonHospital.org/voorhees.