BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR) — On Saturday, Feb. 18 Virginia Tech Men’s basketball team honored one 7-year- old who participated in their “Shoes 4 Hope” event. Chase O’ Brien was one of many kids being treated at Carilion who painted shoes that were worn later by players and coaches. The kids were invited to see their creations in action at two games in January.
Due to his rigorous chemotherapy schedule, Chase wasn’t able to join the other kids for the games in January.
“We were in the hospital for when the kids originally came in a few weeks ago I believe, for the shoe event, so getting here feels good,” said Chase’s mom, Jessica.
When Virginia Tech coach, Mike Young learned Chase wasn’t going to be able to come to the game– he knew he had to find a way to get Chase on the court.
“To be able to recognize him and bring him in the locker room after a big win and present him the game ball, to call his number and his name to the starting lineups, pretty awesome, pretty awesome day,” said Coach Young.
Chase’s dad, Eric, says he could not be more grateful.
“It’s above and beyond what we ever expect, it is truly great to not just spend this time as a family, but also you know do something fun, take our mind off what’s been going on the last year and a half,” said Eric.
Chase has been battling cancer for over a year now– and unfortunately, he is one of many kids going through this.
Eric says the outreach from the “Shoes 4 Hope” event is a great way to bring people together.
“You know it is a good atmosphere for different families in the valley, in the area, and meet one another as well because we are all kind of going through the same stuff with our children,” said Eric.
Coach Young wore chase’s custom-painted shoes during the game– all of the shoes from “Shoes 4 Hope” will be auctioned off to raise money for pediatric cancer awareness.
Chase’s mom, Jessica, says Chase’s last chemotherapy is scheduled for this Summer.
