Dick Vitale helps groups of kids learn life's ABCs and 1-2-3s

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - A visit from Dick Vitale is always awesome, baby.  Though, being stuck in a hospital is anything but.

Vitale read his new book, 'Dickie V's ABCs and 1-2-3s' to kids at All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg, while visiting other kids one-on-one like six-year-old Gabe Grant.  Gabe has had leukemia for more than a year, and will have to continue chemotherapy treatment for at least another two. 

But for kids like Gabe, who got an autographed copy of Vitale's book, a visit and a new book help break the monotony of sitting in a hospital room for weeks at a time.  Click the video above to see Gabe's story.

Vitale is  trying to raise $1 million for pediatric cancer research.  All profits from his book go directly to the cause.  You can purchase his book at Dick Vitale Online or on Amazon .