Bigger Than A Game
October 02, 2019 | General News, Badgers Give Back, Varsity Magazine
Wisconsin Athletics Recognizes Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Athletics dedicated time during September to recognize National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and celebrate the mighty children and families fighting these battles. The Badgers believe that no child should fight alone and there is no team quite like ours to have your back.
Throughout the month, Wisconsin Athletics joined community partner American Family Children's Hospital (AFCH) in weekly events: the Wisconsin Shoe Project, Caleb's Pitch and Badger Fridays.
The Wisconsin Shoe Project hosted AFCH's Sean McGrath, a 5-year-old battling Neuroblastoma, and six other children at UW athletic events. The McGraths attended Wisconsin's victory over Michigan on Sept. 21.
On gameday, the family spent time with the team on the field during warm-ups and high-fived players both before and after the game. However, the most meaningful moment came after the game when wide receiver A.J. Taylor surprised Sean with a brand-new pair of Under Armour shoes. The memories continued when Heisman Trophy prospect Jonathan Taylor took a detour on his way to the locker room to exchange fist bumps and smiles with Sean and his family.
"None of us really knew what to expect, but you all far exceeded our expectations. Sean has asked repeatedly when he can go back and show off his shoes to anyone and everyone," said Kelly McGrath, Sean's mother. "We loved every minute and it is very difficult to express our gratitude."
Off the field, Caleb's Pitch and Badger Fridays both take place at the hospital. Caleb's Pitch is a non-profit initiative that allows children and student-athletes to join forces and tap into their artistic side. Once a month, Badger athletes are given a blank canvas, smocks, and a pair of goggles as they sit and let patients splatter the canvas (and them) with paint.
Badger Fridays are just that — patient visits from Wisconsin student-athletes across all 23 sports.
"Kids can't fight cancer alone," said Jackie Davenport, director of creative for UW Athletics. "Which is why we are proud to stand alongside these cancer warriors and uplift and support them in their fight."
As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, Wisconsin Athletics' support for the brave children fighting these battles is still ongoing. Look for more stories about our efforts to stand alongside these children and their families here.
