Baltimore Ravens’ On-Field Surprise Leads to Afternoon of Pampering for MedStar Health Cancer Patients

The women were treated to custom wig fittings, massages, jewelry, flowers and make-up tutorials as part of the NFL’s Crucial Catch campaign.

BALTIMORE– Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicked off with a big surprise for Ravens fans at M&T Bank Stadium. Dozens of cancer patients and survivors were invited to tour the stadium as part of the NFL’s Crucial Catch campaign. What the women didn’t know was that the tour was just the beginning of what ended up being a day of pampering!

The guests of honor entered the locker room through a tunnel of Ravens cheerleaders. “It surprised me! I did tear up a little bit but I’m okay,” said patient Raven Streams. Yes, she shares a name with her all-time favorite team. Streams said the event was a wonderful distraction during treatment. “It’s been a long road for me. I’m still fighting it. I’m not going to give up.”

MedStar Health patients were joined by cancer survivors representing the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society for the afternoon of fun. The women were able to make their own flower bouquets, design custom bracelets, receive professional massages, and enjoy make-up tutorials. For those whose treatments have led to hair loss, custom wig fittings were provided by Wiggs World, a non-profit started by Ravens defensive back Nate Wiggins.

“Mood and cancer survival rates are closely linked. So, when you’re doing things to lift the spirits of people, it gives them a lot more opportunity to heal in the right environment,” noted MedStar Health social worker Billie Baldwin. “I think it’s really lifechanging for them to be able to experience a day like this.”

Appearances by Ravens players Jaire Alexander, Kaimon Rucker and Tavius Robinson gave fans an extra special surprise. Each bringing hugs, words of encouragement and smiles for the photobooth to share with attendees.

“It makes you feel normal,” shared MedStar Health patient Melissa Malott. “It’s so much, so intense with all the treatments and stuff. It just makes you feel normal. Like you’re not really going through what you’re going through.”

The NFL is celebrating the 17th season of Crucial Catch, helping millions of fans understand the importance of early detection for fighting cancer. MedStar Health is proud to be the trusted medical team of the Ravens for more than 20 years. We are proud to serve as the gameday sponsor for Crucial Catch when the Ravens take on the Los Angeles Rams at home Sunday, October 12 at 1p.m.