Racing Louisville FC stars Katie Lund and Carson Pickett have teamed up to start a Kick Cancer fundraising campaign to raise money for the Addison Jo Blair Cancer Care Center at Norton Children’s. The center is the inpatient unit for Norton Children’s Cancer Institute.
The effort runs through Oct. 7 with the goal of providing funds to enhance and update the oncology wing’s fun room for children and teenagers receiving treatment at Norton Children’s Cancer Institute. Donations can be made through Kick Cancer for NCCI: Donate (onecause.com) or by text messaging “KickCancer” to 512-920-5521.
“I am so excited to be working with Norton Children’s,” said Lund, the standout goalkeeper for the first top-tier professional sports team in Kentucky in almost 50 years. “After touring Norton Children’s, I was immediately touched and wanted to help Norton Children’s make a difference in their patients’ lives. I am so impressed that Norton Children’s is a not-for-profit and no family is denied medical attention. I hope my support of Norton Children’s helps spotlight the amazing achievements of this hospital and the care they provide for all kids.”
“This campaign is near and dear to my heart for several reasons, but ultimately I want to make a positive impact on the lives of the children at Norton Children’s,” said Pickett, a two-time all-NWSL defender who has made two appearances for the U.S. Women’s National Team. “I have worked with many different NWSL teams that had very good relationships with children’s hospitals in their markets, so starting this campaign in Louisville is such an amazing opportunity to continue that passion. We just want to give kids a reason to smile, and hopefully the proceeds from this campaign can do just that.
Lund and Pickett’s Kick Cancer campaign stemmed from their joint visit of Norton Children’s earlier this year, when they toured the oncology wing and learned of the need for an upgraded playroom for patients.
“We are incredibly grateful to Katie, Carson and the entire Racing Louisville FC team for supporting Norton Children’s Cancer Institute,” said Lynnie Meyer, R.N., Ed.D., CFRE chief development officer for Norton Healthcare. “Generous donations from our community allow us to provide advanced care to children and families when they need it the most, right here at home.”
The initiative will include several activations to drive participation and donations across their social media platforms. Fans can follow Lund, Pickett and Racing Louisville FC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more information and donation opportunities through the summer and fall.
The duo plans to set up a donation table and host a silent auction during Norton Children’s Super Kid title night at the Saturday, Aug. 12, Louisville City FC match at Lynn Family Stadium. Lund and Pickett would love your help in donating items from local businesses to put up for silent auction, and the pair plans to sign autographs and take photos at the game, which kicks off at 8 p.m.
“We believe that sharing survivor stories can inspire others and create a community of support for those affected by cancer,” said Stephanie Burdorf, the community engagement coordinator for Soccer Holdings, LLC, the parent company of Racing and LouCity. “Having Carson and Katie’s support is critically important for making an impact and raising awareness around the Kick Cancer campaign.”
Racing Louisville will recognize and celebrate cancer survivors who have shown courage, resilience and hope throughout their cancer journeys through Survivor Spotlight ceremonies at Racing’s games on July 7 and Sept. 15. The club also hosted a Survivor Spotlight for the April 29 match against OL Reign.
A Kick Cancer banner has been signed through the season, with Racing players and supporters writing well wishes and sending love to those who have been impacted by the disease. The banner will be available for writing messages in the Fan Zone on the Waterfront side of Lynn Family Stadium at the July 7 and Sept. 15 Racing matches.
