Jefferson Yon - PointsAgainstCancer

When I was just 4 years old my parents found out the devastating news that I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. Only being 4 years of age, I had no idea that my childhood would be turned upside down in a matter of moments. I was constantly in and out of the hospital for almost 3 years of my life. During this time of intense chemo and radiation I couldn’t run and play outside like kids my age. Surprisingly life in the hospital was made bearable and enjoyable because of what the Hope for Henry Foundation did for me as well as for other kids in the hospital. They made sure that I was constantly entertained by providing arts and crafts and by having my favorite superheroes visiting me in my hospital room. I have had the opportunity to meet John Wall, Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals, and also the Nationals. I was provided with an abundance of care and love throughout my journey from Dr Shad along with her staff at Georgetown University Hospital. With their relentless dedication alongside God’s gracious mercy I was given a second opportunity at life. After treatment and being cancer free it did not stop there. The opportunities never ended. The Hope for Henry Foundation never stopped providing many special opportunities for me including having the chance to be the water boy for the Georgetown Hoyas Men’s Lacrosse team. The hospitality of the players on the team as well as the coaching staff grew the love of the game for me personally. To this day I remember all of the unique opportunities I got to experience and will never forget them. I will always remember every individual that God had placed in my life at the Georgetown University Hospital who sacrificed their own time to pour on love on my family and me. This is why I have dedicated my lacrosse season this spring to help fund for the Hope for Henry Foundation so that they can continue to help better the lives of children in the hospital for people like me.

The Hope for Henry Foundation’s mission is to alleviate the boredom and stress of long hospital stays, encouraging patients and their families to comply with treatments that can be uncomfortable or even painful. Hope for Henry achieves this mission by collaborating with doctors, nurses, child life specialists, and psychosocial team members on events and activities that advance medical care for children. Hope for Henry is reinventing how hospitals care for seriously ill children and their families through innovative programs that entertain, reduce stress, and empower children to be active participants in their own care. I have been directly impacted by Hope for Henry and so I am giving back. For every point ( one goal = one point/one assist = one point) I earn this season you can pledge a donation of $1, $3, $5, or $10. You can also make a one-time flat donation as well. All proceeds will be donated to help the Hope for Henry Foundation continue to improve the quality of life in the hospital for children affected by cancer and life threatening illnesses.

Thank you for your support and generosity, every pledge and donation helps!