Gavin Rupp is a 13-year-old boy who has dealt with more suffering and life-altering situations than anyone 5X his age should have to deal with. After fighting cancer for the past two years, Gavin was diagnosed with his latest tumor being in the middle of his brain, and therefore unable to be operated on. On Friday night, Bryce Harper and the Washington Nationals did their part in making sure that Gavin enjoyed a night of fun and relaxation.
The Nationals invited the Rupp’s to attend their game on Friday night and even have Gavin toss out the ceremonial first pitch (which you can see above). Many of the players came over to speak to Gavin before the game, but Bryce spent about 45 minutes chatting up the Ropp’s and the good deed didn’t go unnoticed.
Gavin’s father spoke to the Washington Post about how much the day meant to him and his family:
“I can’t say enough. A guy who is 20 years old, to take that much time,” Chris Rupp said. His voice quivered and his eyes watered. “When I was 20 years old, I didn’t have that maturity, to do what he just did.”
“This was an incredible day. “We had to tell Gavin there were no more options. He’s going to die. That was hard. You take that day, and then follow it up with a day like today, it means the world. You’ll do anything for your kids. There’s only so much you can do as a parent. For Bryce to do what he did, you can’t put a price tag on this. You just can’t do it. For Gavin to have this honor, it’s like of those days that just doesn’t get any better.”
I urge you to go over to the Washington Post for a full write up on the special day.
Gavin Rupp is truly an inspiration to me! He is a warrior and will always be in my heart and mind! #HesMyHero pic.twitter.com/WO5qzc3HJ9
— Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) July 6, 2013
About Chris Partlow