By TOM WILLIAMS

It was more than four decades ago that Dave Tatum was a successful athlete at Mainland Regional High School.

He was a fullback in football and a sprinter on the track team, competing on the same field and track they still call The Mustang Corral (except there were no lights and no video scoreboard – this was before Jack Thomas got involved).

Dave would drive hard when he was hit in football and kicked it up to another level when he saw the finish line in track. You could say he was a strong competitor – that he had heart.

Well, recently, Dave’s heart became a problem. He suffered a near-fatal heart attack that was so serious it damaged the crucial organ. The damage was significant and he needs a heart transplant.

While waiting for a heart to become available he has expenses and his friends are helping out and hoping you will join them.

Tomorrow night (November 6) many friends will gather at DiOrio’s in Somers Point to pay tribute to Dave and raise more funds for him and his family. It will be one of the gatherings that DiOrio’sc does so well – buffet, beer, soft drinks, coffee, raffles, auctions and prizes. It will run from 6-9 and you can join in the event for just a $50 donation. You will almost surely see some people you haven’t seen in a while.

Here is what Dave has to say.

“My heart attack was so severe that I am now in a state of heart failure. The daily intravenous drug and life vest are helping to keep me alive. I am in need of a heart transplant. I am beginning the process of being evaluated to determine if I am a viable candidate.

“I am now disabled and not able to work. My teaching career of 28 years ended abruptly. I am hoping to return to teaching in some capacity in the future. Teaching students has always been my passion and my mission.

“Currently, I am in need of financial support to help offset the expensive medical costs associated with being a heart failure patient. The specialized treatment and care that is necessary to keep me alive is extremely expensive.

“I appreciate any support and help that you could provide for me during this difficult time.”

If you are unable to join others at DiOrio’s tomorrow night, you can donate through the GoFundMe account HERE.

Dave Tatum wore the green and white for four years with pride and his efforts added to the acclaim for the Mustangs.

Now he needs your help.