By Ron Ross

In response to the many concerned inquiries from associates, friends and fans of Boxing Hall-of-Famer Hank Kaplan because of their inability to contact him, his family asked me to announce that Hank is seriously ill and asks that we all join together and pull for his recovery.  Surrounded by his loving family, daughter Barbara, son-in-law Jerry Haar, the family of his son Steve and Hank’s companion Carole Meyer, Hank’s mind is as sharp as ever and his eyes light up whenever boxing is discussed.

In his own right, Hank Kaplan, the Hall of Fame boxing historian whose archives are probably the most extensive in the world, is as tough as any of his subjects. I speak with Hank on a daily basis. He does not wish to burden his friends or followers with his health problems but there comes a time when the joining of hands in a communal bond of camaraderie is a more effective medicine than any doctor can prescribe.

Hank’s daughter Barbara thanks everyone for their concern and the family will issue any updates.

The staff of BoxingScene.com, comprised of many writers who are personal friends of Hank, influenced by Hank or saw Hank as their mentor, extend their prayers and get-well wishes to Hank and the entire Kaplan family.