An Unforgettable Game Day

Dear Colleagues,

Two weeks ago, when the Tigers claimed a decisive victory against Buffalo, I was honored to attend a tailgate with our pediatric oncology patients. There, our patients and their families enjoyed a traditional Mizzou football Saturday, complete with food, activities and, of course, some cornhole.

In this photo, patients, their families and our employees pose for a photo with the GP M.A.D.E Foundation, featuring a visit with Gary Pinkel himself. Photo courtesy of Tyler Severance

This tradition started 15 years ago, with former football coach Gary Pinkel. He organized a yearly tailgate for MU Health Care’s pediatric cancer and blood disorder patients, but it paused in 2020 with the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this photo, I am seen standing with Dr. Tyler Severance, a pediatric oncology and hematology doctor. I am grateful for the dedication and passion he has for our young patients.

This year, Dr. Tyler Severance, assistant professor of Pediatrics, reached out to Mizzou Athletics ahead of the season to revive this game day experience. They were wonderfully generous, offering enough tickets for our pediatric patients and their families, as well as our Cancer and Blood Disorders team and their families.

Our team immediately got to work to make this day even more special for everyone. The GP M.A.D.E Foundation and Super Sam Foundation donated in support and classic Mizzou swag was available for our patients, including bead necklaces, tiger ears and pompoms. Child Life specialists created activities for the kids, like ‘Pin the Tail on the Tiger’ and a costume booth. Truman the Tiger and his brother, TJ, even made an appearance.

As patients, families and our employees made their way to the game, the stadium made sure to welcome them. Some patients were featured on the jumbotron, much to their delight.

This event is a great example of our close-knit community. The generosity of the pediatric hematology and oncology care team, local community groups and Mizzou Athletics created a truly special day for our patients. I am grateful for the kindness all of these groups showed to our patients and their families. Go Tigers!