Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital to benefit from Northview Wildcats ‘Black Out’ Pediatric Cancer Event

Pediatric cancer patients and families at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital will benefit from the second annual “Black Out Pediatric Cancer” event. The Northview Wildcats will host a benefit football game against Grand Rapids Christian High School on Friday, October 8, 2010 at Northview High School Wildcat Stadium. All proceeds will support the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (P.O.R.T.)

The theme of the Northview game will be black. Wildcat football players will play in black jerseys and the community will have a chance to bid on a jersey to support pediatric cancer patients at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Spectators will wear “Black Out Pediatric Cancer” t-shirts. Individuals are encouraged to arrive at 4 p.m. to watch the men’s varsity soccer game, followed by family-friendly tailgate starting at 5 p.m and then the football game.

“I am reminded time and time again how blessed I am to have four healthy children,” said Brenda Dykema, chair of the event and P.O.R.T. volunteer. “Having children who enjoy athletics is a reminder of how kids at Northview are so fortunate to be involved in many extracurricular activities. It is my passion that our kids realize and know the great life they live because of good health.

Black t-shirts are available at all Northview District Schools and at the stadium during the game.

“The event involves our kids doing something to give back to other kids not as fortunate,” said Coach Zeitman. “The Northview community is known for embracing others and this is another creative way to show it.”

The Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation’s mission is to save lives and advance the health and well-being of children and families through philanthropy. Visit devoschildrens.org/give to learn how to make a difference.

Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, a member of Spectrum Health, is a Grand Rapids-based hospital serving children throughout Michigan. A teaching hospital, it includes more than 150 pediatric specialty physicians with specialized training in providing medical and surgical care to children in more than 40 pediatric specialties.