Earlier this month, eight Team IMPACT Fellows had the opportunity to represent Team IMPACT at the Children Hospital Association’s 20th Annual Family Advocacy Day (FAD) in Washington, D.C. Cam Golden (Kent State football), Ella Belanger (Dean College field hockey), Stephen Michaels (Tufts football graduate), Kyle Bruhn (UC San Diego water polo), Will Foster (Marquette Lacrosse), Anthony Hinton (Duke football graduate), Sophie Meguid (Michigan dance), and Macaylee Nelson (Cincinnati Cheer) joined pediatric patients and their families to share their journeys with federal lawmakers to raise awareness about the ongoing and essential care provided by children’s hospitals across the country.
“Family Advocacy Day was not only the most meaningful Team IMPACT Fellowship event I have been a part of but also one of the coolest experiences I have ever had, period,” Sophia said. “Not only were the Fellows able to learn so much more about each other and make lasting memories together, we also were able to make incredible memories with the FAD families by learning their stories, having authentic conversations, and breaking it down on the dance floor. FAD gave us a platform to use our voices to advocate in a tangible way. I truly cannot say enough good things about this experience.”
Through our clinical program, Team IMPACT acts as an extension of care outside the hospital walls. The advocacy of our Fellows and others participating in FAD helps further support the families of children living with illnesses and disabilities by shining more light on the importance of their treatment and care. Team IMPACT’s partnership with CHA highlights the value of our shared missions, and those missions coming together through Family Advocacy Day was a life-changing experience for all involved. “We are so proud to be part of CHA’s Family Advocacy Day and offer our Fellows the opportunity to take part in such a powerful event,” said Krissie Kelleher, CEO of Team IMPACT. “Events like FAD serve as proof that our Fellows are not only student-athletes but also leaders in their communities and beyond, and our partnership with CHA is evidence of the power that comes when we are all in, all together.”
Cam called his experience at FAD a “blessing.” “It was a remarkable experience,” he said. “10/10!” Ella seconded Cam, saying, “It was incredible being a part of this trip and learning so much about all the kids and families that were there.”
During the three-day event, Fellows spent times with patients and their families, met with Congress, and shared how Team IMPACT influenced their time as collegiate student-athletes and helped shape them into better advocates for inclusivity and accessibility.
Macaylee struggled to find the words to sum up the impact this event had on her. “This experience was something I can’t even explain,” she said. “There wasn’t a second that I was not having fun. It is so easy to celebrate those kids. I enjoyed hearing every family’s unique story!”
Through participating in events like Family Advocacy Day, we hope to exemplify the work of our Fellows alongside our families and amplify our partnership with the Children’s Hospital Association and invaluable the care they provide to so many families across the country. Sophia summed up her experience at Family Advocacy Day with sincere gratitude that she will carry with her far beyond these three days. “Thank you all so much for including me in this event. It truly was transformative for me as a budding professional, prospective healthcare provider, and a human being,” she shared. “These experiences will shape my perspectives and identities moving forward!”
