Miami Dolphins Deliver Holiday Cheer To Kids In Hospital

KENDALL, FL — Following last Sunday's big victory, Miami Dolphins players and cheerleaders have been spreading a little holiday cheer around the Miami area with a stop at Baptist Children’s Hospital and an upcoming event at Zoo Miami. Ted Larsen, Cody Parkey and Kenny Stills spent their day off this week visiting young patients along with cheerleaders Alexandra, Etta and team mascot T.D.

“I’m very honored to be here. It’s cool to see the smile on these kids face. If we can brighten their day at all, it makes it worth it for us,” observed Parkey. “It’s our off day, but we try to use our influence in a positive way."

Patients and hospital staff also look forward to such visits.

“The players, cheerleaders and T.D bring such joy to our patients and families — a memory they will never forget," according to Baptist Hospital and Baptist Children’s Hospital Chief Executive Officer Bo Boulenger.

Over the years Dolphins players and cheerleaders have visited more than 200 patients at the hospital.

This week the team distributed what they called "Baskets of Hope" filled with toys, games, craft items, stuffed animals, gift cards and various items from supporting partner Wendy’s.

Dolphins players have a tradition of community participation. On Sunday, the Dolphins Cancer Challenge will host its 2017 Family Fest at Zoo Miami.

Children ages 3-12 are invited to participate in a kids bike ride in a car-free, safe location with their families from short loops up to 3 to 5 miles. The event will feature activities for the entire family, including admission to the zoo, bounce houses, face painting and food and beverages.

The entire $25 registration fee will benefit cancer research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Learn more at DolphinsCancerChallenge.com

On Feb. 10 the team will host DCC VIII, which will include five bike routes through South Florida, a 5K run/walk, a finish line concert with the Goo Goo Dolls and Big Head Todd and the Monsters. The event will also include a Dolphins Youth Ride and Youth 5K for kids 14 to 17.

For more information call 305-943-6799 or send an email to RideDCC@dolphins.com.

"I try to do as much as I can in the community, especially being from South Florida," added Parkey during his visit to Baptist Children's Hospital. "I feel like it’s heavy on my heart to give back to the community as much as I can. But it’s awesome being here – it’s just as uplifting for us as it is for some of the kids.”

Photo courtesy Miami Dolphins.