MWL1 Dayton Dragons

Home Run for Life Event on Wednesday

Published on August 10, 2009 under Midwest League (MWL1)
Dayton Dragons News Release


DAYTON, OH- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield will honor six-year-old Aliyah Bing in a "Home Run for Life" during the Dayton Dragons/West Michigan Whitecaps game at Fifth Third Field on Wednesday, August 12 at 7 p.m.

The Dayton Dragons and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield have teamed up for their sixth year to showcase the "Home Run for Life" program. This program honors individuals who have shown tremendous strength and courage in fighting serious illnesses.

Aliyah was born with a rare form of sickle cell disease. A defect in her blood cells' hemoglobin causes Aliyah's red blood cells to become hard, sickle-shaped, and sticky. This can lead to pain, infection and organ damage. Because of her condition, Aliyah must avoid becoming overheated or chilled, get regular rest, drink plenty of water, and take folic acid to help build her red blood cells. She suffered a setback last year when doctors discovered part of her hip bone died because of a lack of blood flow, forcing Aliyah to undergo a week of treatments to regenerate the bone.

Aliyah visits the sickle cell clinic at Children's Medical Center every three months for check-ups, where doctors perform X-rays, blood work, and check on her spleen. Because of the progress made in preventative measures, Aliyah is able to enjoy life while living with the rare disease. She takes swim lessons, watches SpongeBob Squarepants, and enjoys several rides at Kings Island.

On Wednesday evening, Aliyah will be joined at Fifth Third Field by her parents, Jennifer and Ronald, her sisters, Alexis and Arielle, and some of the doctors, nurses, and Anthem representatives who have played a major part in helping Aliyah over the past few years.

During an inning break, Aliyah will take a ceremonial lap around the bases signifying her "Home Run for Life." When she rounds third base, the Dayton Dragons players will be lined up to greet Aliyah as she makes her way toward home plate. Upon crossing the plate, Aliyah will be greeted by Dragons manager Todd Benzinger, who will present her with a certificate making her an honorary Dayton Dragon. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Program Director Nancy Girton will present her with an engraved baseball bat.

Individuals and groups seeking information about Dayton Dragons lawn tickets, the season ticket wait list, sponsorship opportunities or booking a Dragons speaker are encouraged to contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, or find the Dragons on the Web at daytondragons.com.

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Midwest League Stories from August 10, 2009


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