KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- This weekend, Eric Hosmer signed a deal to play for the San Diego Padres. The former Royals first baseman has had a big impact both on and off the field in Kansas City.
Most people know Eric Hosmer for what he does on the baseball field.
The hard-hitting first baseman was a key player in the Royals World Series win in 2015.
But for some in Kansas City, it’s what Hosmer did off the field that made such a big impact.
In 2014, Noah Wilson was diagnosed with cancer.
The 6-year-old spent a lot of time in the hospital. The highlight of his days, watching the Royals games on tv.
His favorite player was Eric Hosmer. So on Hosmer’s birthday, Noah decided to reach out.
“Noah decided to make a birthday sign for him, we tweeted it out and said ‘happy birthday Hosmer from your biggest fan Noah.’ He responded back and said ‘I’m your biggest fan Noah and I want to meet you,’” said Scott Wilson, Noah’s dad.
Hosmer followed through. He not only came to see Noah, but the two formed a friendship. Noah had the chance to meet other players and go to the World Series.
The two kept in touch through video messages, texts, and phone calls while Hosmer was on the road.
The Royals player threw his support behind Noah’s Bandage Project, an effort the 6-year-old started to get cool band-aids to kids who need them. The project now also raises money for pediatric cancer research.
“Noah’s Bandage Project has become so much bigger than we ever thought it would and it’s thanks to guys like Hosmer and Duffy and their willingness to go and be a voice,” said Wilson.
In 2015, Noah lost his battle with cancer. His family says the moments that Hosmer helped create for Noah are memories they hold near and dear to their hearts.
“He did so much off the field to help give Noah and our family these incredible memories that we’re going to look back at on and have forever,” said Wilson.
Noah’s dad says the news that Hosmer is leaving Kansas City is bittersweet.
“Sad, because Hosmer made a tremendous impact on the city both on and off the field,” he said.
While his team colors may be different this coming season, Wilson says he knows that Hosmer’s passion to give back won’t change.
He says San Diego is lucky to get him.
“We’re excited for him,” he said.
With Hosmer’s support Noah’s Bandage Project has really grown. The effort is now worldwide and now helps bring light to the lives of children fighting cancer every day.
The annual 5k to raise money for Noah’s Bandage Project is on April 28th. For more information, visit the website.
