Local Phillies Fan Named Honorary Bat Girl
Local Phillies fan Linda Duaime, who received a life-changing diagnosis of Stage 3 breast cancer in 2014, is making a difference when it comes to "Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer" and, as a result, will be recognized on the field as the Phillies Honorary Bat Girl on Sunday, May 15, before that day's 1:35 p.m. game against the Cincinnati Reds at Citizens Bank Park.
Duaime is receiving this honor after being selected as the Phillies winner for Major League Baseball's 2016 Honorary Bat Girl contest, which recognizes baseball fans who have been affected by breast cancer and who demonstrate a commitment to supporting the fight against the disease.
"Linda Duaime is an inspiration to the many 'Fighters' who are Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer every day," said Mary Ann Moyer, Phillies Director of Community Initiatives. "Her positive approach to dealing with her diagnosis and her willingness to make a difference has impacted so many others who are fighting this disease. We are honored that she has shared her courageous battle with us, and we look forward to saluting Linda on May 15 as she represents countless others who have fought and continue to fight for their lives."
Fans from across the United States and in Canada shared their experiences in the fight against breast cancer through inspirational stories of hope and motivation, as well as the reasons they, or their nominees, should represent their favorite team. The complete list of winners, as well as their stories, can be found on HonoraryBatGirl.com.
The Honorary Bat Girl program was introduced in 2009 to raise additional awareness and support for the annual "Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer" initiative celebrated on Mother's Day. In eight years, thousands of unique testimonials have been submitted and more than 3 million fan votes have been cast. Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer is a Major League Baseball initiative supported by MLB charitable partners, Stand Up To Cancer and Susan G. Komen. This initiative raises awareness about the breast cancer cause, while also raising funds to support breast cancer research.