Trail Blazers Bring Smiles to Shriners Children's Portland

Several members of the Portland Trail Blazers, coaches and mascots paid a visit to Shriners Children's Portland recently, spending some quality time with patients.

"The Portland Trail Blazers have been coming to the hospital for many years, and it's always been such a special time for the players to meet our kids and just to have some fun," said Dereesa Reid, hospital administrator.

Some of the players visited with patients in the inpatient unit (IPU). One patient was waking up from surgery, but was not about to miss meeting Donovan Clingan and Blake Wesley. They took photos with her, signed a Blazers poster, and sat and talked with her.

Another very young halo traction patient in the IPU had barely left his room during his stay at Shriners Children's, but that day, he not only ventured out of his room and the IPU wing - he was soon getting help dunking in the main gym. Several children, including many members of the Rolling Blazers, a local wheelchair basketball team, took shots and showed their best moves while Clingan guarded the hoop.

"What an amazing time our kids had," said Kelli Sullivan, coach of the Rolling Blazers. "From teaming up with coach Patrick St. Andrews to play foosball to playing basketball with Toumani Camara and Rayan Rupert to playing video games with Shaedon Sharpe, they all still have smiles on their faces!"

Blake Wesley, Matisse Thybulle, Yang Hansen and Robert Williams III also joined in the fun, along with coach Jacob Mooallem and both mascots, Douglas Fur and Blaze. They rotated around the three designated stations to meet all the kids.

"My son is still talking about how he beat Robert Williams III in Mario Kart - that was a real highlight," said Matt Conley, a patient parent. "I was impressed by how professional and super-personable all the players were. Thanks to everyone at Shriners Children's for really making some core memories."

The Blazers also brought beanies and team posters that they signed for all the children. They were happy to sign jerseys, basketballs, shoes, casts and more, and to pose for many pictures to wrap up the special evening.

"Part of our mission is to be a part of the community," Reid said. "We are so grateful to the Blazers for helping us connect with our community and for connecting with our patients."