Newsroom

MSE Foundation Partners with Flashes of Hope

July 02, 2013  |  Posted by Alexx Klein

Tayler Hill Takes Pictures with Patients

Monumental Sports & Entertainment Foundation recently partnered with Flashes of Hope and donated $20,000 dollars in April 2013 to the D.C. and Northern Virginia chapters of Flashes of Hope. Flashes of Hope is a volunteer driven organization dedicated to children’s cancer research fundraising. Since its founding in 2001, Flashes of Hope has photographed nearly 32,000 children at hospitals and camps across the United States.

“This is a moment in time for these children and parents,” said Claire Thomas, a Flashes of Hope representative. “There are giggles and fun and laughter and it makes them forget about everything else that is going on.”

As a part of the partnership, players from the Wizards, Mystics and Capitals will participate in photo shoots with the cancer patients. Kicking off the series of photo shoots was Mystics first round pick Tayler Hill, who took part in a photo shoot with pediatric cancer patients and their families at Inova Women’s and Children’s Center on June 11.

“They’re really excited about the pictures,” Hill said. “I’m camera shy, but they were ready. It’s great to see their energy levels and nothing gets their hopes down. I think that’s just a blessing to see.”

Patients and their families were treated like movie stars before the photo shoot with an optional make up artist. Once they were finished with make up, they posed for family photos as well as one with Hill. Another surprise that the families received were autographed cards of Hill, signed miniature basketballs and temporary Mystics tattoos for the children.

“Tayler has been wonderful today just kind of jumping right in,” said Holly Senn, a Child Life Specialist. “It’s been nice to see her interact with the kids and the kids respond so well to her. Having opportunities like Flashes of Hope gives them a chance to feel like a family again.”

http://www.wnba.com/mystics/community/flashes_of_hope_070213.html