Philadelphia Phillies players Matt Strahm and Brandon Marsh recently shared a touching moment with 8-year-old Lincoln Hanson, a young baseball fan battling an aggressive form of leukemia. The meeting took place at Citizens Bank Park and was organized by Victus Sports and the HEADstrong Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting families affected by cancer.
Lincoln, a Little League All-Star before his diagnosis, got to meet his favorite players, Strahm and Marsh, during batting practice. He presented them with personalized gifts: a bright green glove for Strahm and a bat for Marsh, both bearing his name. Lincoln even signed his name on two pairs of cleats, gifting one pair to Strahm, who then wore them during catch with the young fan.
Strahm and Marsh returned the gesture by sporting green gear during Friday night's game against the Kansas City Royals, an 8-2 victory for the Phillies. The green color represents the HEADstrong Foundation, which has a presence in the Philly area through Nick's House Philadelphia, a home in Swarthmore that provides accommodation for families whose loved ones are undergoing cancer treatment at nearby hospitals like the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
The Phillies are also hosting Nemours Children's Health Childhood Cancer Awareness Night on Saturday, further highlighting the importance of supporting children battling cancer and their families. Lincoln's family is keeping his spirits high, allowing him to enjoy special moments like this while facing an incredibly difficult situation.
This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the power of sports to bring joy and hope, even in the face of adversity. The Phillies' gesture has undoubtedly provided Lincoln and his family with a much-needed break and a cherished memory.