The LucStrong kickball tournament is an annual fundraiser for the LucStrong Foundation, which helps families of children with sickle cell disease. I was invited to film the 2023 tournament in Newbury Park, where about 300 people registered to play, and it was one of the most meaningful events I’ve covered.
Why kickball?
After Luc Bodden’s bone marrow transplant, his family celebrated every year with a kickball game with close friends and family. In August 2016, right when that year’s game was supposed to happen, Luc got sick and spent five weeks in the hospital before he passed away. One of the last things he told his mom, Stacy, was that she had to do the kickball game again. In her words, the family is turning their pain into purpose by helping children like Luc.
What is sickle cell disease?
As Luc’s dad explained it to me, sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that limits oxygen to parts of the body. It causes severe pain crises that can put patients in the hospital and damages major organs over time. A bone marrow transplant is the only known cure.
How does LucStrong help?
The foundation partners with children’s hospitals, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, City of Hope, and Stanford Children’s. Hospital social workers identify families in need, and LucStrong gives them grants for medical bills, rent, and other needs, so parents can focus on taking care of their kids.
What was the tournament like?
- Teams of all kinds, including the Oak Park football team, who were very confident.
- A silent auction with donated items.
- Face painting and balloon animals for the kids.
- Kona Ice shaved ice (try the Tiger’s Blood) and drinks from the Tipsy Trailer.
- LucStrong apparel, with proceeds going to the foundation.
- A new booth inviting high school and college students to start LucStrong clubs.
LucStrong also hosts a charity pickleball tournament. Read about the pickleball tournament.
How can you help?
Donate, volunteer, or sign up for the next event at lucstrong.org.
Frequently asked questions
What is the LucStrong kickball tournament?
An annual kickball tournament that raises money for the LucStrong Foundation, which supports families of children with sickle cell disease. About 300 people registered in 2023.
Why does LucStrong hold a kickball tournament?
Luc Bodden’s family held a kickball game every year after his bone marrow transplant. One of his last requests was that his mom keep doing it.
Where was the 2023 LucStrong kickball tournament?
In Newbury Park, California.
How do I donate to LucStrong?
Go to lucstrong.org.
Filmed August 2023 by Steve Hise for Simi On Video. Running a community event? Send me a message on Instagram.
