Team Edwards holds charity basketball game

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class William O'Brien
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Team Edwards gathered in Desert High School's gym for a charity basketball game April 6.

The purpose of the game was to raise money for Madeline Vu. Recently diagnosed with cancer, Madeline is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Donations were made and snacks were sold to raise money, and all proceeds went toward paying for her treatment.

"Everyone from the team showed support and that's what teamwork is all about, that's what the Air Force is all about and Edwards exemplifies that," said Phong Vu, 772nd Test Squadron test engineer and Madeline's father. "Everyone who's supporting her and helping her see her way through her chemotherapy keeps her motivated. It's tough but I know she'll get through it."

In addition to raising money, the game was also intended to keep her spirits high while she goes through this tough situation.

"We were happy to do this. Anything to help someone out is what we're about as an Air Force family," said 2nd Lt. Tieu Myers, 95th Contracting Squadron contract specialist. "It was a good way to keep her spirits high and let her know that there are a lot of people who care for her."

The true purpose of the event was served when the Desert High Lady Scorpions substituted Madeline into the game for one play. In the interest of fun and her morale, their opponents intentionally left the flip-flop-wearing player unguarded and allowed her an opportunity to score for her team.

"It was really great that they did this for me. I love Desert High," Madeline said. "It was cool to get to take a shot during the game. It was exciting and I'm glad they let me do that."

The event lasted about an hour and a half and served its purpose of raising money. The most important thing was the support everyone showed to Madeline as she goes through chemotherapy, her father said.

"This is so wonderful, the whole community came out and supported," said Mr. Vu. "Everybody's like a family to each other. We're so moved by this and would like to say thank you to everyone."