In a touching display of camaraderie, a high school football team in California recently went viral for their heartwarming support of a cheerleader facing a cancer diagnosis. This remarkable moment not only showcased their kindness but also drew attention to the importance of raising awareness for leukemia.
Last month, senior cheerleader Lisa Thompson received the devastating news that she had chronic myeloid leukemia and has been undergoing daily chemotherapy treatments since then. In response, the football players at Hillcrest High School planned a special tribute during their game held on September 2nd, where Lisa cheers for the team.
Senior quarterback Mike Rodriguez organized a heartfelt entrance for his 56 teammates to honor Lisa. As they made their way onto the field, each player placed a single golden rose at her feet. The choice of yellow roses was significant, as they symbolize friendship and support—perfect for this special occasion.
Rodriguez expressed, “Lisa is part of our family, and we wanted to show her that she’s not alone in this fight. It was crucial for us to let her know we’re all behind her.” The video capturing this emotional moment has since amassed over 35 million views, generating a wave of support for Lisa on social media. The hashtag #TeamLisa was created, and a fundraising page to assist with her medical expenses has raised more than $3,000.
In a heartfelt tweet from her private account that was shared by ESPN, Lisa expressed her emotions, saying, “I was completely taken aback, overwhelmed, and speechless. Thank you so much to both teams for making this a game I’ll never forget and for bringing me tears of joy.” While the Hillcrest Hawks celebrated their victory that evening, the real highlight was the profound support shown by these young athletes for their friend during such a challenging time.
September is both Blood Cancer Awareness Month and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, making it a fitting time for Lisa’s story to resonate with many. Her experience serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting childhood cancer research, which remains critically underfunded.
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In summary, the kindness displayed by the football team towards their cheerleader Lisa during her battle with leukemia not only warmed hearts but also highlighted the need for ongoing support and awareness for childhood cancer research.