Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
This longtime UAB football tradition gives hope to local families
Reading time: 4 minutes
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When a child receives a diagnosis, it can turn the entire family’s world upside down. But, with local organizations like Children’s Harbor, families in Birmingham facing uncertain times find refuge.
Through events, counseling services and programs (like Champions for Our Children during a UAB football game!), families have a second home at Children’s Harbor.
Keep reading to meet a couple of families, and learn how you can see the love they receive first-hand.
Children’s Harbor serves as an escape for families with sick children
Since 1989, Children’s Harbor has provided refuge, respite, and resources to families with children who have experienced a life-altering medical diagnosis.
The nonprofit started at Lake Martin nearly 36 years ago, but expanded its services through “The Harbor” Family Center at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham in 2001.
Ever since, the two locations have offered a built-in support system for families facing unexpected circumstances—and at no cost to those families!
Families have access to a:
- basketball court
- fitness center
- game room
- hair + nail salon
- masseuse
- nap room
- and more!
Plus, the nonprofit offers specialized services like:
- Budgeting + financial aid
- Illness-specific counseling
- Medical crisis counseling
- Social services
For Autumn + Brooklyn, Children’s Harbor has always been there
A Birmingham local, Autumn Simpson has been coming to Children’s of Alabama for different treatments throughout her entire life and through multiple diagnoses.
When I spoke with Autumn’s mom, she explained that Children’s Harbor was just always there. From the time she was a baby to now, a spunky 12-year-old, Children’s Harbor has given their family a place to “just be.”
Every time a child comes through The Harbor Family Center doors, no matter what it’s for, they get a stuffed animal.
But there’s value in Children’s Harbor visits for the parents, too.
“Autumn’s favorite part is getting the stuffed animals, but mine is always being greeted with a smile and offered help. Whatever they can do to help you, they’re willing to do it.”
Princess Hawkins, Autumn’s mom
Similarly to Autumn’s story, Brooklyn Kendall’s family grew up with Children’s Harbor.
Brooklyn was diagnosed with medulloblastoma when she was three years old, and the family found that Children’s Harbor was a great place to take a break, with the added bonus of a supportive community.
“When Brooklyn was in the hospital, we would go over there to shower and just relax. And they had volunteers come sit and play with Brooklyn so I could get a break—it really means a lot.”
Kimberly Goble, Brooklyn’s mom
Now a bubbly and outgoing 15-year-old, Brooklyn and her family travel from Marshall County to Birmingham every three months for MRIs and swing by The Harbor Family Center to say hello!
UAB football x Children’s Harbor
This year marks 10 years of partnership between UAB football and Children’s Harbor, and the 9th annual “Champions for Our Children.”
The partnership began in 2016, when former head football coach Bill Clark and his team began volunteering at the Children’s Harbor Family Center in Birmingham. In 2017, Coach Clark had his players wear the names of Children’s Harbor patients on their homecoming jerseys.
The tradition is still going strong—one decade down and many to go.
“[Champions for Our Children] shows that the community cares about what these kids are going through, and they want them to get these experiences. That’s very special to me.”
Princess Hawkins, Autumn’s mom
See you on Oct. 18 for Champions for Our Children at UAB’s homecoming game!
During UAB’s Homecoming game, over 100 children will be represented on custom Children’s Harbor/UAB jerseys.
Autumn’s name will be displayed on the jersey of #6 linebacker Calvin Pitcher, while #8 defensive tackle Nigel Tate will be rocking Brooklyn’s name.
See the Autumn, Brooklyn and 100+ kids at Champions for Our Children tomorrow, October 18 at 3:00 PM at Protective Stadium.
Learn more about Children’s Harbor and their impact on families in Birmingham and beyond—follow them on Facebook + Instagram.
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