Leaha Hammaker, 14-Year-Old with Leukemia, to Celebrate Anthem Home Run for Life at Wednesday's Dragons Game

DAYTON, Ohio -- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ohio and the Dayton Dragons will host 14-year-old Leaha Hammaker during the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program on Wednesday, July 10 when the Dayton Dragons take on the South Bend Cubs at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.

The Anthem Home Run for Life program provides children in the Dayton region battling serious medical conditions with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each honoree gets to take a lap around the bases during a Dragons game at Day Air Ballpark while the crowd cheers them on.

Leaha’s Story

On a Friday night in May of 2022, Leaha, an artsy 12-year-old softball player, was dealing with a bloody nose that wouldn’t stop. Her parents immediately took her to the hospital, where medical personnel stopped the bleeding. At the time, Leaha was experiencing additional symptoms, causing her parents to request additional blood work.

The Hammaker family stayed at the hospital over the weekend. Leaha completed various tests and was diagnosed with leukemia. Following the diagnosis, Leaha began her brave journey through chemo. In June of 2022, she entered remission.

One of the many challenges during Leaha’s treatment was frequent hospital stays, but Leaha found enjoyment in the creative ways hospital staff interacted with her. Leaha recalled a friendly Nerf battle that once took place on her floor.

Last August, Leaha’s treatment port was removed. This allowed her to return to the softball field and compete in her favorite sport. Leaha typically plays first base and catcher.

Currently in her maintenance phase, Leaha now takes various pills spaced throughout the day and has routine lumbar punctures. During her journey, Leaha and her family never gave up.

“Battling leukemia makes me feel strong,” Leaha said.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Dayton Dragons applaud all those who have been instrumental in Leaha’s life, including her parents, sister, two brothers, and entire medical team.

Join us at the Dragons game on Wednesday, July 10 to celebrate Leaha’s Home Run for Life.

To learn more about the iconic Anthem Home Run for Life program, visit www.daytondragons.com/hrfl.