The Washington and Lee women’s lacrosse program joined teams across the country in celebrating ‘Women’s Lacrosse Friends of Jaclyn Week’ as they played in honor and support of the Friends of Jaclyn (FOJ) Foundation on Saturday at Watt field. Even more exciting than the hard-fought contest against the Dips of F&M, was the fact that the Generals' FOJ teammate, Maggie, helped cheer the team on as their guest of honor. Maggie is a very special part of the Generals team; the team loves seeing her contagious smile and spirit on the sidelines at games!The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization, whose goal is to improve the quality of life for children suffering from pediatric brain tumors and additionally help fund research. The FOJ Foundation matches children, based on geographic location, with college or high school sports teams. Once a match has been made, there is a ceremonial adoption, and then the child is instantly surrounded by 20-30 friends and a loving support network.
The Foundation was created after the Northwestern women’s lacrosse team formed a relationship with Jaclyn Murphy, an 11 year-old who was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in March 2004. Jaclyn’s extended family of the Wildcats produced a group of “older sisters” helping her as she continually battles her illness; in turn, Jaclyn has enhanced the team through her contagious joy of life, courage, strength, and relentless spirit.
During the game, the Generals held a raffle of Generals women’s lacrosse gear and passed a donation box in the stands which raised over $200 to benefit the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation.
For more information about the Foundation or to make donations online, please visit http://www.friendsofjaclyn.org/.
