An avid Cincinnati Reds fan, nine-year-old Keegan recently met his favorite players, Ryan Hanigan and Joey Votto thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation
® of Greater Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana.
The Centerville, Ohio native was born with a Complex Congenital Heart Defect, a life-threatening medical condition which has been managed by three open heart surgeries all before his second birthday.
Keegan’s condition causes him to tire easily and lack the stamina necessary to play competitive sports. According to his mom, Jami,
"Keegan has been through a lot, but it is hard to tell by looking at him now. For what he lacks in physical stamina he makes up for in character. He is so full of personality, he lights up our lives every day!"
Keegan loves playing catch in the backyard, watching the Reds play and showing his encyclopedia-like knowledge of player statistics, according to Jami.
“We have known for years that he was eligible for a wish. This summer, we realized that meeting his favorite Reds players would be the perfect wish for Keegan,” she said.
Prior to the start of the October 2 game where the Reds took on the Pittsburgh Pirates, Keegan was given a full uniform including a custom jersey, pants, belt, socks and a hat.
During batting practice, Reds First Baseman Joey Votto tossed the ball with Keegan for several minutes. Catcher Ryan Hanigan took Keegan into the outfield for the remainder of practice and introduced him to fellow Reds players. After batting practice, Keegan was taken back into the clubhouse where he performed the regular duties of honorary batboy.
Keegan was escorted to the broadcaster’s booth during 3rd inning where he was featured live on Fox Sports Ohio. The family enjoyed the game from Scout Level seats behind home plate, along with plenty of treats from our concession stands.
“We had a wonderful time,” remarked Jami.
“Please tell everyone that worked on this wish, that Keegan and his family send a great big THANK YOU!”
