CINCINNATI -- Their stories are often inspiring and moving, and their presence on Mother's Day shows they are warriors in the battle vs. breast cancer. Major League Baseball announced Monday the winners of the 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.
Winners were selected to represent each of the 30 MLB clubs and they will be recognized on-field at Major League ballparks on Mother's Day this Sunday. Representing for the Reds will be Caitlin Adkins of Amelia, Ohio.
Although 23 years old, Adkins, was diagnosed with Stage 3 HER2 breast cancer in June 2015 and endured multiple hospital stays, six rounds of chemotherapy and three surgeries and is in the process of undergoing 30 rounds of radiation treatment.
Adkins has shared her story at speaking engagements around the community and on her personal blog and carries a message for young women to know their bodies and to alert doctors when something is wrong.
During MLB's annual Mother's Day national day of recognition, the Honorary Bat Girl winners will take part in pregame activities, be honored during an on-field ceremony and receive pink MLB merchandise with two tickets to the game.