Jaxon presented the game ball to the referees before the men’s basketball game.
On Thursday, February 1, 2018, as the Alice Lloyd College Eagles and Lady Eagles took on Asbury University in a double-header, the crowd took on a challenge of their own – to raise money for Lil’ Heart Sluggers. All proceeds from the night’s games, over $200, went to the foundation started by ALC alumnus, Shannon Russell.
When his son, Jaxon, was born with a congenital heart defect, Shannon said the Lord laid it upon his heart to do something in Jaxon’s honor, to serve other families being faced with the same harsh realities. Thus the idea of Lil’ Heart Sluggers was born!
The foundation supports families who have a child born with a congenital heart defect like Jaxon! Recently, they have even expanded their efforts to serve children diagnosed with cancer. Lil’ Heart Sluggers distributes Lil’ Heart Slugger Packs, which include a baseball, an ink pad, a case and a miniature bat. The packs have been sent all across the country and even all across the world!
For the Russell kiddos, February 1st was an extra special night – it was their first basketball game, ever! And, they got to experience it at “Daddy’s school.” Jaxon even had the privilege of presenting the game basketball to the referees. It brought the crowd to their feet and tears to his mama’s eyes.
“It was an honor to have the Russell family on campus,” said Men’s Basketball Coach, JR Hammond, “and to be able to help them help these kids.” We know Mrs. Lloyd would be proud of the servant’s heart that Shannon has! And, we certainly look forward to having Shannon, Miranda, Jaxon (5) and his siblings – Lacie (9), Abby (7), and Asher (seven months) – back on campus soon!