Drew and Kristin Stanton attended the dedication of the Sparrow Children’s Center Pediatric Playroom, Thursday, June 15, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Mich. Stanton’s High 5ive Foundation helped fund the playroom renovation, which features new toys and a design to engage young patients.
“I was actually born in this hospital -- which I think some people don't necessarily realize -- (so) there's sentimental value here,” said Stanton to those in attendance. “Now having children, you realize not only the impact that it has on these kids that are coming here, but on the families and how hard (being at a hospital) can be at times.
“Being able to have distractions goes such a long way, especially for those, unfortunately, that have to be here for an extended period of time.”
Drew and Kristin first learned of the project while at Sparrow to see the teen room the foundation helped fund more than two years ago. It features TVs and video game systems for older children to enjoy while at the hospital.
“When we completed the teen room down the hallway, they walked me and my wife down here and said, ‘This is our next project,’” recalls Stanton. “We walked through these doors and we said, ‘Oh, this is a (much) bigger room,’ but we knew there was a need.
“Right away we jumped on board. (We) didn't really know how it was going to get resolved, but just knew that it needed to get resolved.”
High 5ive partnered with Summit Contractors to fully fund the room, which young patients enjoyed throughout the dedication.
“Without the partnership (with Summit), this wouldn't be possible,” said Stanton. “I realize everything that it takes to get to this point — all of Sparrow Hospital working behind the scenes to accomplish this.
“I’m fortunate because I get to play a game that I love that I've been playing my whole life, but the foundation that it's given me to go out here and speak about causes and to raise money and awareness is far more important than anything I've ever accomplished on the football field.”
Stanton and his family are staying in Lansing for tomorrow’s High 5ive Celebrity Golf Outing, which is sold out. This is the ninth year that Stanton has hosted this event and the seventh year that it has taken place in Lansing.
Drew is very proud to have the opportunity to continue to support Children’s Miracle Network/Sparrow Children’s Center, Special Olympics of Michigan, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Fresh Flint Festival through funds raised at this annual event.
SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE
