Wednesday, October 19, 2011

In my last post I had mentioned a boy at my Dad's school who suffers from a serious disease. After hearing more and more about him throughout the week and finally meeting him last night, I have learned more things from this child than any teacher I have ever had. (no offense Mom and Dad) Eddie is a nine year old boy who suffers from and has been burdened by the side affects of cancer. Last night, Eddie was brought to the locker room and walked the team out on the field as well as sat on the bench with us for the game. When he entered the locker room I was truly shocked, his skin pale he had little hair and his condition required him to have a tube which stretched from his nose to his stomach. 

It without a doubt blew my mind, a child that stood only four feet tall and seemed minuscule next to some of us who are taller than six feet, stood taller than all of us on that night. As a team we did everything possible to make him feel comfortable when he was with us. Individually, we introduced ourselves and afterwards presented him with a ball which we all signed. Also, in dedication to Eddie and his struggle, we wore yellow tape on our socks during the game. I compared the entire experience to the Jimmy Fund telethon held every summer where Red Sox players are able to meet the children at Dana Farber. Although we are not comparable by any means to a professional team, to be able to make a wish of someone less fortunate than yourself come true, is truly a rewarding experience. 

Physically, Eddie is at a constant struggle with his condition. What we see as an ordinary day, he sees as a paradise. Everyday, he must undergo supplements upon supplements of medication as well as appear in doctors' offices on a regular basis. As some may perceive it, my team and I did nothing short of a heroic act for a child who struggles with a deathly disease. I was told by a parent that I am a hero for Eddie. Although I may be his, he is also mine. 

1 comment:

  1. Don't sell yourselves short...what you did for that kid is just as valuable as a "professional team. Besides, I don't see any of you eating friend chicken and drinking beer on the bench.

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