
Cassidy Brozovich, center, was presented with a beautiful tiara and a huge applause and standing ovation
Kent State University’s 2012 Homecoming Court– Queen Ann Miller and King Thomas Ream – welcomed a special girl and boy into their royal family.
During the Oct. 20 homecoming game against Western Michigan, Cassidy Brozovich, 11, of Howland, was named Kent State’s Homecoming Princess and Ben O’Daniel, 13, of Kent, was named Homecoming Prince.
Cassidy has been treated by Akron Children’s Hospital since March for a rare childhood ovarian cancer. Ben, also an Akron Children’s patient, has leukemia.
Honoring two courageous young cancer patients at Kent State’s homecoming was the idea of Kayla Hodnett, branch manager for Nellie’s Catwalk for Kids, a non-profit that works to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer.
“At halftime, Cassidy entered the field with University President Lester Lefton and the homecoming court. She was presented with a beautiful tiara and a huge applause and standing ovation,” said Hodnett. “She couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear, even in the pouring rain.”
Sadly, Ben was unable to attend the game due to his blood counts.
“But, his name was announced and I was able to Skype Ben from the field on my phone,” said Hodnett. “So Ben was able to have a front row seat to the crowning ceremony from his dry, warm couch – in his pajamas.”
Thanks to Hodnett, Nellie’s Catwalk for Kids, and those working behind the scenes in Akron Children’s Showers Family Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, including Maria Hartland, for making this special day happen.
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