Inside St. Louis Force Baseball and Fastpitch in Fenton, one group of kids are learning a lesson about teamwork. Sunday night, dozens of players took a break from the diamond to help sick children.
"I like having the thought of getting to hear how happy they are when they open these gifts,” said Cassie Oakley.
The baseball and softball academy donated and wrapped hundreds of gifts for children diagnosed with cancer and other serious illnesses. The toy drive benefited Fenton based nonprofit Miracles N’ Progress.
“This is what life is all about,” said Trina Eakins of Miracles N’ Progress. “It was just a goal to make sure we could change lives.”
Miracles N' Progress offers support and assistance to families facing big battles. The organization grants what Eakins calls everyday wishes. It can be trips, events, gifts or even paying a bill. Whatever it takes to bring joy to a family.
“I hope we fill a void they may have and take away what they may be feeling,” Eakins said.
At Sunday’s Fill the Sleigh event was 17-year-old Tiana Washington. She's in remission from a rare form of bone cancer. Washington has been through a lot but has also experienced a lot of love from Miracles N' Progress and now from the kids of St. Louis Force.
"It’s truly amazing because it brings a whole bunch of families together and joy to families in need,” said Washington.
Miracles N’ Progress plans distributing the donated gifts this week to 78 families it’s currently helping.
“I hope they get a smile, forget about their illnesses and keep walking forward in life,” said Eakins.
