On October 12, 2007, Dave Zastudil of the Cleveland Browns paid a visit to Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.
Pediatric cancer patients,
Brandon Och and
Ge’Rhett Fletcher, had the opportunity to spend some time and meet with the former Bay Village High School and Ohio University standout two days before the Cleveland Browns went on to beat the Miami Dolphins 41-31.
Mr. Zastudil’s visit was made possible by
Rise Above It (RAI) an organization that has partnered with Rainbow and creates an immediate positive impact on individuals and families who face the financial, emotional and spiritual challenges resulting from cancer. Ryan O’Donoghue, President & Founder, formed RAI in memory of his courageous brother Colin O’Donoghue who also battled cancer.
“Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital’s pediatric hematology-oncology division and the Ireland Cancer Center is proud of its relationship with RAI and looks forward to working with RAI on various ventures in the future,” said Dr. John Letterio (Chief – Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Division). We are thankful for the part that Ryan and Dave have and continue to play in fighting this terrible disease.”
Sante Ghetti of Rainbow’s Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Initiative added, “Rainbow was ecstatic to be named silver sponsors of RAI’s 3rd Annual Golf Outing in September and we look forward to organizing an Annual AYA Cancer Symposium in conjunction with RAI’s Inaugural Black Tie Event next year. This visit further reinforces our commitment to Rise Above It and our shared cause.”
RAI’s
golf outing last month nearly tripled their fundraising goal. The monies raised from the golf outing and the black tie event to be held in 2008 will directly impact the lives of young adult cancer patients and their families.
Dave Zastudil’s visit certainly brightened our patients, their families, and our employees’ day.
Mr. Zastudil was originally drafted by Baltimore in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. The northeast Ohio native was signed by Cleveland to a five-year contract as an unrestricted free agent on March 12, 2006.