Westhampton - Gary Carter has always been one of the nicest athletes on the planet. He's always a pleasure to talk to and throughout his 19 years as a Major League Baseball player and post-MLB career, I've always been impressed with the way he handles himself, on and off the field. His stellar baseball career which earned him a much deserved selection to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003 is impressive, but what sets Carter apart, is the fine person that he is.

So the news that Carter is battling Glioblastoma, a form of cancer that affects the brain and central nervous system, is crushing. It immediately makes you wonder why such horrible things happen to such good people?

It would be difficult to find a person who has any negative things to say about Gary Carter. While covering the NY Mets as a reporter/producer for ABC Radio Sports in the mid-1980s, including the 1986 World Series, I had the opportunity to interview Carter frequently. He always provided excellent material and always went above and beyond. He would answer your questions so thoroughly, that you had enough 'tape' for several weeks! Not once did Carter decline an interview. He was always polite, pleasant and spoke to reporters. He has always been a true gentleman and because of the way he conducts himself on and off the field, he has always been one of my favorites.

Mets fans cherish their memories of Carter from New York's win over the Boston Red Sox in the 1986 World Series. Carter smacked two homers at Fenway Park in Game Four, hit an eighth-inning sacrifice fly that tied Game Six at Shea, and with two outs in the 10th inning of Game Six, scored the first of three runs for the Mets, starting the rally which eventually led to the Mets winning the World Series Championship. The Mets should have retired his number "8" years ago!

Carter and his team have been working "to better the physical, mental and spiritual well being of children" via the Gary Carter Foundation. You can learn more about the Foundation's work at www.garycarter.org.

Each year, he partners with Sweet & Low and hosts a charity golf event. I've had the pleasure of playing in this event many times when it used to be at Admiral's Cove in Jupiter, Florida. I was always impressed with his enthusiasm and his dedication to helping others.

Carter is a devout Christian and proud of it. He's never been afraid to proclaim his faith and 'spread the word.' His strong faith will no doubt help him in dealing with his battle with Glioblastoma. And his adoring wife Sandy and three children, Christy, Kimmie and DJ - will provide a strong support system.

Here's to the "Kid." You should know that your fans appreciate you, not only for your excellent Major League baseball career, but more importantly, for setting such a positive example as a person.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!