Cheers, Laughter, and Heartfelt Moments: Penn State Football Team Brings Joy to Children’s Hospital
On May 28, the halls of Penn State Health Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pennsylvania, were filled with joy and laughter as the Penn State Nittany Lions football team made a special visit to young patients and their families. This heartwarming tradition, which had been paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marked the team’s first in-person visit since 2019.
A Day of Connection and Compassion
As the buses arrived, players and coaches were greeted with cheers from hospital staff and families. They split into small groups to visit patient rooms and engage with children in the Tree House Café, the hospital’s play area. The afternoon was filled with games, arts and crafts, and meaningful conversations, providing a welcome distraction and a source of comfort for the young patients.
Head Coach James Franklin expressed the significance of the visit, stating, “It’s great to be back. We truly appreciate the opportunity to be here and put smiles on people’s faces.” He emphasized the importance of these visits in giving players perspective and understanding the impact of their time on others’ lives.
Impact on Patients and Families
For patients like Clara Harnish, who had been recovering from a ruptured appendix, the visit was a much-needed break from the confines of her hospital room. Her mother, Kelly Harnish, shared the joy Clara experienced, saying, “These four guys who are just huge walk into the room and her eyes just lit up. It’s just an opportunity for her to get out of the room and to have something to do.”
Similarly, 14-year-old Branson Hoglund, who has been undergoing treatment for Ewing’s sarcoma, found solace in the visit. His mother noted that such events “lighten up what can be a very dark journey,” providing moments of happiness amidst challenging times.
A Tradition of Giving Back
This visit was part of a longstanding tradition where the Penn State football team engages with the community, especially the young patients at the hospital. These interactions not only uplift the spirits of the children but also instill a sense of empathy and gratitude in the players. As defensive end Adisa Isaac, who has three disabled siblings, put it, “It means a lot… it’s just great to come back here and support and give back and do what we can to bring a smile to them.”
The event also highlighted the ongoing support for Four Diamonds and Children’s Miracle Network, organizations dedicated to assisting children battling cancer and other serious illnesses. Through initiatives like THON, Penn State’s student-run philanthropy, significant funds are raised annually to support these causes, ensuring that families receive the care and resources they need during challenging times.
Conclusion
The visit by the Penn State football team to the Children’s Hospital was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the positive impact that small acts of kindness can have on individuals facing difficult circumstances. As Coach Franklin aptly noted, “A little bit of their time can go a long way in people’s lives,” reminding us all of the profound difference we can make in the lives of others.
