Believe, Overcome: Themes of Optimism in Chemo Pal-designed Portland Timbers FC T-Shirts for Childhood Cancer Awareness
Beloved MLS Soccer team, Portland Timbers, and NWSL Portland Thorns FC, partnered with Children’s Cancer Association (CCA) to provide three Timber’s fans facing serious illness with an extra dose of Joy and a break from treatment at the hospital.
Through the Timber’s Stand Together organization, Emely, age 12; Peter, age 17; and Weston, age 6, were given the special opportunity to design custom t-shirts and reveal them during Sunday’s game. Emely and Peter’s shirts depict their love for soccer and also include inspiring messages of “Believe” and “Overcome,” each representing their journey with cancer. Weston’s showcased his love for Timber Joey.
The t-shirts will go up for auction September 19 through September 24 at PTFC.givesmart.com with proceeds to benefit CCA.
A Goal-Worthy Chemo Pal Mentor
For Emely, this isn’t the first time she’s been connected to soccer fame and fun – her former Chemo Pal mentor is none other than Emily Menges, Portland Thorns defender.
While in treatment for Burkitt Lymphoma at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Emely spent her time reading and writing. When Emily Menges is off the soccer field, her hobbies also include reading and writing. Our Chemo Pal Specialist knew it would be a perfect match.
Having a Chemo Pal mentor was especially important for Emely because it kept her focused on all the things she loved before her diagnosis. Em and Em became close friends through a shared passion for crafts and soccer.
More Than Medicine
We are honored to partner with Stand Together during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Each day, 43 families in the U.S. are given the news that their child has cancer. CCA supports the many great organizations focused on cancer research and finding a cure. But we’re different.
CCA focuses on creating Joy in the moment to enhance the emotional well-being of pediatric patients battling cancer and other serious illnesses – because we’ve seen firsthand that sick kids need #MoreThanMedicine.
Emely, Peter, and Weston have all experienced the healing power of friendship through their Chemo Pal matches.
The t-shirts are ready for your bid September 19 through September 24 at PTFC.givesmart.com. A special thanks to CCA Board Member and Portland Timbers COO, Mike Golub, for his leadership and continued support through the Portland Timbers Stand Together partnership.