MWL1 Dayton Dragons

Springfield teen, Chris Eckert, makes Home Run for Life

Published on August 4, 2008 under Midwest League (MWL1)
Dayton Dragons News Release


DAYTON, OH- Fifth Third Field will host 14-year-old Chris Eckert from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield's "Home Run for Life" program when the Dayton Dragons take on the Fort Wayne Wizards on Tuesday, August 5th at 7 p.m.

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

In February, Chris started feeling sick and began getting terrible headaches that were even stronger than a migraine. His parents took him to their family doctor, who referred them to Dayton Children's for an MRI. The MRI revealed a brain tumor, and that same day, Chris underwent an 8-hour surgery to remove the tumor.

Chris' journey was just beginning with the surgery. Over the course of the next six weeks, he underwent chemo treatment in the morning and radiation treatment in the afternoon, five days a week. These days, he visits the hospital three or four times each month for inpatient chemo. In a few months, Chris will undergo another MRI to check his progress.

Aspiring to be an Eagle Scout, Chris has used the toughness he developed as an outdoorsman to help give him the strength in battling this illness. Already accustomed to camping, canoeing, and hiking, Chris will get to enjoy another outdoor experience on Tuesday night-a Dayton Dragons baseball game.

Chris will be joined at Fifth Third Field by his parents Brad and JoHanna, his brother Alec, several friends and family members, the President and CEO of Dayton's Children Medical Center David Kinsaul, and many of the doctors, nurses, and Anthem representatives who played a major part in assisting him over the past six months.

During an inning break, Chris will take a ceremonial lap around the bases signifying his "Home Run for Life." As he rounds third base, the Dayton Dragons players will be lined up to greet Chris as he makes his way towards home plate. Upon crossing the plate, Chris will be greeted by Dragons manager Donnie Scott, who will present him with a certificate making him an honorary Dayton Dragon. Chris will also receive a personalized bat from Angela Braly, President and CEO of WellPoint, the parent company of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

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.

Check out the Dayton Dragons Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Midwest League Stories from August 4, 2008


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central