CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers took to the field Sunday in support of a special fan, Nash Wilbanks, a 9-year-old cancer patient from Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital.
Nash was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in May 2023 and is currently in maintenance therapy. This past winter, Nash participated in the Cannon Ballers’ annual Levine Children’s jersey design contest as a form of art therapy while receiving treatment.
In March on Nash’s birthday, he was surprised with the news that his design was chosen and would be worn on the field during the season.
“The attention Nash gets from the amazing people at Atrium Health is incredible,” said Brad Wilbanks, Nash’s dad. “These people are not working a job, they are living out their calling. They love on Nash and our entire family and do anything they can to brighten Nash’s day when we are at the clinic. Seeing Nash’s design on a professional baseball field is something I can’t wait to see; he loves the game of baseball, and he loves the Ballers!”
The first 100 kids in attendance received replicas of Nash’s jersey, courtesy of Atrium Health.
The game-worn jerseys will also be auctioned off later in the season to benefit Arts for Life, an art therapy program that helps kids like Nash heal through art.
