A young girl with a prosthetic hand has set her sights on a remarkable goal — to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at every Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium across the nation. Thanks to the magic of social media, her aspiration is on the verge of becoming a reality.
Meet Lily Thompson
Meet Lily Thompson, a spirited seven-year-old from Nevada who has an unparalleled passion for baseball. Born with Poland Syndrome, Lily faced significant challenges from birth, including underdeveloped chest muscles and three missing fingers on her right hand. However, this brave little girl has never let her condition define her.
Innovative Support from UNLV Students
When students at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) learned about Lily’s situation, they took action, utilizing a 3D printer to craft a custom prosthetic hand that is controlled by fishing line. While many robotic prosthetics can cost thousands and require constant adjustments, Lily’s new hand was created for just a few hundred dollars, enabling her to engage fully in activities that girls her age adore—especially baseball. Remarkably, she even taught herself how to grip and throw a ball.
MLB Teams Join the Excitement
After a video detailing Lily’s story was shared by Bleacher Report on Twitter, MLB teams quickly began to take notice. One by one, they extended invitations for her to throw the first pitch at their games. Not only major league teams joined in on the excitement; minor league clubs and some college teams also opened their ballparks for Lily to showcase her talent.
Lily’s Journey So Far
According to her Twitter page, Lily’s Pitch, she has already made her debut at the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Nationals’ stadiums. With the overwhelming response from various teams, it seems her family will have a busy schedule ahead of them, bringing joy to fans across the country.
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Conclusion
In summary, Lily Thompson’s story is a heartwarming testament to resilience and the support of community. With MLB teams coming together to help her achieve her dream, this young girl is proving that with determination and a little help, anything is possible.