A Heartwarming Encounter
A young patient from Panama had a special trip to see the Philadelphia Phillies, thanks to the friendliness of strangers. Dylan Morales, 9, still feels love in the Ronald McDonald House in Camden, New Jersey, the day after meeting with his hero Phillies Infielder Edmundo Sosa, a Panama native.
Overcoming Challenges
Morales, who is treated for cerebral palsy, was surprised against the Detroit Tigers before the game on Sunday, and he got many Phillies Swag, including a signed jersey. Morales’ young life was full of challenges and heartache when he had to struggle with the neurological disorder, and a year ago his father was killed in a car accident. "It is very difficult," said Morales’ mother Anna.
A Special Visit
The Make-A-Wish Foundation in Panama arranged that Dylan Morales and his mother come to Philadelphia to lead leg surgery in the Shriner’s hospital. "This country is wonderful for my family," said Anna Morales. "Everyone was so wonderful to see and it’s nice." Anna Morales said that thanks to the hospitality of the RMHC, she was filled with the medical knowledge of Shriner’s full gratitude during the visit. And of course the unimaginable visit to the Phillies game. "It’s good, very good," she said. "Dylan and me [are] Very happy."
A Community Comes Together
The meeting came together with the help of the consulate of the Consulate of Panama and a Facebook group. "The community has really strengthened," said Tamara Balbanan from the Panama Consulate. "I’m only very happy for you," she added. "I know that you have gone through a lot. She is a great person and Dylan is incredible. You deserve it."
A New Fan Forever
After the operation, Dylan Morales was in a wheelchair, and with the consent of his doctors he was happy to give it up. The Phillies now have a new fan forever. Dylan Morales and his mother expect to return to Panama at the end of the month. They say that the Phillies and the city will always have a special place in their hearts.
