An Evening with George W. Bush

President Bush and LaurenThe Miracle League proudly hosted 43rd President, George W. Bush for an evening on November 11th at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center in downtown Atlanta. In very intimate setting, a few hundred enjoyed a great dinner and discussion with the President.

Former President George W. Bush came to Atlanta on Tuesday night to address a dinner at Atlanta’s Georgia Tech Conference Center benefitting The Miracle League, which provides an opportunity for challenged children to play baseball.

The format was an interview of the 43rd president by Lauren Gunder, the official Miracle League spokesperson. This amazing girl was diagnosed at five months old with Malignant Infantile Osteopetrosis and given zero chance of surviving past age two. She is now 24 years old. The legally blind Lauren fought her disease and is currently a paraprofessional teaching at Parkview High School— and she asked amazingly penetrating questions on everything ranging from Bush’s passions to his presidency.

He also discussed his just-released book about his father (and former president) George H.W. Bush and his new love for painting.  Attendees, included Gov. Nathan Deal and possible presidential candidate Dr. Ben Carson, received copies of “41: A Portrait of My Father.”

Featured Partner – LSI

Landscape Structures is proud to be the official playground partner of The Miracle League. With more than 270 organizations across the U.S. Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Australia, The Miracle League gives more than 200,000 children and young adults with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
“It is truly an honor to be a Miracle League partner. We have witnessed firsthand how our partnership has transformed communities and the positive impact it has made on so many families. These experiences help inform us and our efforts to bring new and exciting inclusive product and playground designs to children of all abilities.”

Jane Jenewein  – Strategic Alliance Manager

To learn more about the LSI/Miracle League partnership click here.

The Story of Homer

The following is a story written by Miracle League of Michigan player, Christian Dean about our mascot Homer.  It was Christian’s dream to have a mascot for our league and thanks to a generous donation by Mark Waad, this dream has come true.

Homer’s Story – By Christian Dean

HomerSmlHomer lived in a land far away from here where everyone had a passion for sports. Everyone played baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and many more interesting sports. But one day, he saw many kids at the hospital or at their own homes and they couldn’t play because they had disabilities.  So, he tried to help these kids by going on a quest to find a place where these kids could play. He went across many oceans, deserts, and mountains, until he found himself in Southeast Michigan where he met Mr. Steve Peck.

Homer was encouraged by Mr. Steve.  Mr. Steve shared his story about the creation of The Miracle League of Michigan.  After listening to the story, Homer knew he had to be part of the league, and help Mr. Steve bring the enjoyment of sports-especially baseball and bowling to all kids.  Homer was happy to see kids in wheelchairs, walkers, kids with Down syndrome, Autism and many more with disabilities be able to play and have fun and celebrate the joy of sports. Homer is not only the mascot of our league, but another reason to call the Miracle League a safe and warm organization.

Here are some things Homer likes:Home Ironside

Favorite Colors: Blue and Yellow

Favorite Food: A hot dog with extra mustard from the Snack Shack

Favorite Animal: Dog

Favorite Movie: Air Bud

Favorite Song: “Centerfield” by John Fogerty

Best Friends: Paws from the Detroit Tigers and kids of all ages