Former Panther helps provide memorable day
MEMORABLE DAY — NRHEG and University of Minnesota graduate Carlie Wagner hugs cancer victim Emersyn Brown during a day Wagner and the For a Day Foundation arranged. (Photo by Jannell Tufte, For a Day Foundation)
By JANNELL TUFTE
For a Day Foundation
The For a Day Foundation is committed to creating emotionally therapeutic experiences for seriously ill children - and providing these kids and their families with a joyful and much needed diversion from the strain of chronic treatment. It serves communities through a national network of local chapters directed by volunteers. It strives to create unforgettable experiences for children in need, specifically children with cancer.
When the foundation got word of an amazing little girl staying at the Rochester Ronald McDonald House, they knew just who to call: our very own Carlie Wagner.
On March 2, 2018, Emersyn Brown of St. Ansgar, Iowa was diagnosed with Philadelphia like B cell ALL at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester. After many months of chemotherapy and waiting, Emersyn was admitted on Sept. 1, 2018 and started the conditioning process for a bone marrow transplant, which included total body irradiation and high dose chemotherapy; finally on Sept. 8, 2018, Em was given a bone marrow transplant. This was a very tough road, but she persevered and was discharged from the transplant unit on Nov. 21, 2018, just in time to celebrate Thanksgiving at the Ronald McDonald House, which was her home besides St. Mary's since March of 2018.
Before Emersyn was diagnosed, she kept busy hanging out with friends. In the summer, you could find Em on her bike or at the pool. She played the saxophone in her middle school band. Em also loves sports, playing and watching, her favorite being basketball, which she enjoyed playing point guard. Even though she is small, she is mighty! She enjoys being active and is not afraid to get her hands dirty, especially making slime! She is a very strong-willed and kind-hearted child who is a warrior.
In early February, Wagner was contacted and asked if she could help out on a dream. Of course, with no hesitation she started making arrangements for a fun-filled day. On Feb. 17, 2019 Carlie lined up a very memorable day, together with the team at For A Day. Even though this day happened to be another one of our nasty weather weekends, it was decided to move ahead. A stretch limo pulled up to the Ronald McDonald House, where we were greeted by Em’s parents, siblings, and friends from school. While it was a slow go to Williams Arena, they all enjoyed the time in the limo getting acquainted with each other.
Upon entering Williams Arena, they were surprised to have Wagner meet them at the door and give a tour and share stories of the arena and show special places for pictures before guiding them to our wonderful seats. Carlie hung out with Em the entire game, taking breaks so others could take selfies with her. It’s always fun to mix with a celebrity.
During the third-quarter break, Emersyn and her parents, along with Carlie, were featured on the court to share a little about Em and her love of basketball. Em got to help throw out some basketballs into the crowd.
After the game was over, when others were meandering to their vehicles, Emersyn was escorted down into the locker room where she was able to listen to the post-game excitement, take several group pictures and best of all, take a picture with Lindsay Whalen.
It was a day Emersyn and others will never forget. These little life experiences are forever molded into their hearts.
Since attending this game, the good news is Emersyn finally got to go home! She is doing well and hoping to get back to her “normal” life. This may have been the medicine she needed.
For A Day is a national network but the local chapter consists of Jason Lennox, Mara Sellner, Sarah Buttera, Rachel Springer, Tami LaCanne, Jamie Vanoosbree, Mattie Boe, Emy Whalen (no relation to Lindsay) and Jannell Tufte. They are always looking to build the team and would love to have others share in the experiences that we do. The For A Day 5K will be held mid-September in Owatonna. Many local sponsors and donors are from the NRHEG area, along with corporate and individual sponsors. Of course, runners and walkers are needed. Watch for more details on that event.
Thank you again to Carlie Wagner and the Minnesota Lady Gophers along with the For A Day team for providing this diversion for Emersyn and her family.