September 17 ceremony at Kick It for Karsyn event
Wabash, Ind. (August 31, 2016) — The City of Wabash will honor one of their own during Karsyn Bratch Day at the Third Annual Kick It for Karsyn kickball tournament at the Field of Dreams complex on September 17. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation’s Pediatric Cancer Research Lab at Riley Hospital in Indianapolis.
Karsyn Bratch inspired so many people in her hometown of Wabash during her eight-year fight against cancer. To know Karsyn was truly to love her. She was generous, friendly, and had a positive outlook no matter how she was feeling. Sadly, Karsyn passed away in October 2015 at the age of 12.
Her legacy continues through the Kick It for Karsyn event, which has raised more than $70,000 for childhood cancer research since its inception in 2014. More than 20 kickball teams are expected to take to the field to on September 17 to make a difference for what Karsyn’s valued most: the fight against childhood cancer.
“Karsyn was a fighter who inspired so many of us during her time here on Earth,” said Wabash Mayor Scott Long, who will read a proclamation in advance of Karsyn Bratch Day at the Wabash City Council meeting on September 12. “This is a way for our community to continue her legacy and the fight against childhood cancer.” Mayor Long will also participate in the Kick It for Karsyn kickball tournament on September 17 for the third consecutive year.
“Karsyn truly loved the Kick It for Karsyn event because it gave her the opportunity to experience her community and make a difference for research,” said Larry Graff, event coordinator on behalf of the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation. “She knew the importance of childhood cancer research, and this event furthers her incredible legacy to ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer is guaranteed a safe and effective cure.”
It was Karsyn’s positive attitude during her fight against cancer that inspired many people in her community and beyond. “Karsyn didn’t know a stranger and truly loved knowing that everyone gathered for her to play kickball,” said Bill Burchett, Karsyn’s stepfather and co-founder of the Kick It for Karsyn event. “To her, everybody there was her friend. She would be so happy to know that we are continuing the fight to help other children with cancer.”
The Kick It for Karsyn kickball tournament begins with a special opening ceremony at the Field of Dreams complex at 10 a.m. on September 17. Teams will consist of 8-10 players to compete in both competitive and family-friendly brackets as the Wabash community continues to fight on for childhood cancer research and treatment.
The team registration deadline is September 10. Volunteer opportunities are available.