2018 Cal Ripken Visits ICLL Pediatric Patients

Our ICLL pediatric patients enjoyed a visit from Cal Ripken Jr, who played 21 seasons on the Baltimore Orioles team and is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. During the visit, the kids painted birdhouses—a nod to Baltimore being called “Birdland” in honor of its Orioles baseball and Ravens football teams. Cal brought the children signed baseballs, and LBR Hope for Henry at Sinai Hospital generously treated our kids to all kinds of Orioles baseball swag—hats, blankets, action figures, and more!

Two of our patients who couldn’t partake in the visit got a special treat. Marilyn delivered a letter and drawing of the Orioles mascot from Reilly, one of our patients being treated for congenital femoral deficiency who is a big baseball fan. Cal signed a picture of Reilly throwing the first pitch at an Aberdeen IronBirds game congratulating him on his “great form!” Ariella, who is being treated for bone cancer, also couldn’t attend. Ariella gives out teddy bears to other kids in the hospital through her Ari’s Bears foundation. She gave Marilyn one of the bears decked out in Orioles gear and a picture of herself with the bear to share with Cal. Cal not only signed her photo, but also added his number and signature to the back of the teddy bear’s jersey! We’re so grateful to Cal for taking the time to brighten our patients’ lives.