fmi in the Community
On a dreary and dark Tuesday night the lights and smiles shined brightly at Citizen’s Bank Park as children and families from The Variety Club Charity enjoyed a special night watching the Fightin Phils take on the Florida Marlins.
I had the opportunity to be a chaperone that night through the Young Professionals Network (YPN) for a special child named Nicky Fleming. He is one of 100 children that were able to attend the game with his family. He is a non-verbal, autistic 10 year old with a huge personality! I got to learn all about the Fleming family who has two other non-autistic sons who love Nicky just as much as his parents do.
I watched as Nicky could clearly spell words and phrases on his pad of paper and it was evident that just like every other 10 year old, Nicky loved macaroni and cheese, but unfortunately we had to settle for infamous ball park hot dogs (my personal favorite).
We all clapped and danced along in between batters and just enjoyed the night getting to know new friends. What happened next was the most exciting part of the evening for the Fleming Family. They were chosen to dance on the Phillies’ dugout with the greatest mascot in baseball, The Philly Phanatic! The entire Fleming family got up there and danced, smiled and laughed with their big, green friend.
No one could imagine how much fun it could be just spending time with complete strangers. I was one of those people. I got to witness a family with such love for one another that it truly inspired me to be the best possible human being I can be. No matter how tough things get there is always a silver lining.
I wish the Fleming Family lots of encouragement and love and also want to thank them for welcoming me into their lives, even if it was only for one night.
That special Tuesday night at Citizen’s Bank Park will be a night that I will remember forever.
Roseanne Capaccio
Project Manager
fmi direct, inc.
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