Dayton, Ohio—Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 11-year-old Payton during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, August 5 at 7:05 pm, when the Dayton Dragons take on the Great Lakes Loons at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District.
The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region who are battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree takes a lap around the bases at Day Air Ballpark during a Dragons home game while the crowd cheers them on.
Payton’s Story
Payton was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart disease involving four defects, shortly after birth. Initially, her parents weren’t overly concerned about the heart murmur detected, however, a formal diagnosis was made at ten days old following an echocardiogram and EKG with the cardiology team.
At six months old, Payton successfully underwent open heart surgery to treat her condition. Her care has since transitioned from weekly visits to only needing check-ups with her cardiology team every two years.
Payton is a child of tremendous resilience and courage. She lives life to the fullest, often forgetting about her “special heart” and embracing every day like any other child. She has found strength to battle her diagnosis with the love of her family, friends, and her cherished Heart Lion, a gift from the Mended Hearts organization signifying her bravery after surgery.
Payton enjoys an active life, including skating, music, art, and boating on the lake with her family. Her favorite food is lasagna, and her go-to snack is Nutella. Before heading back to school, she’s excited to spend time with friends at the park and pool. Looking ahead, Payton dreams of becoming a scuba diver so she can explore underwater ecosystems and marine life.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud those who have been instrumental in Payton’s life, including her mom, dad, siblings, family, friends, and her entire medical team.
Join us at the Dragons game on Wednesday, August 5, to celebrate Payton’s Home Run for Life.
To learn more about Anthem Home Run for Life, visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.