As part of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s continued commitment to supporting the prevention and treatment of cancer and the work of the Maine Children’s Cancer Program (MCCP), 9-year-old Donny Holland of Fryeburg was recently honored as an Anthem Hero at Hadlock Field for his courage in fighting acute leukemia.

Holland is the third of four Anthem Heroes at Hadlock to be recognized during the 2023 season. The ceremony took place prior to the July 22 Portland Sea Dogs game.

“Donny’s positivity during his leukemia diagnosis in inspiring and highlights why we are proud to honor kids like him as Anthem Heroes at Hadlock,” said Denise McDonough, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine. “We applaud the tireless efforts of the team at the Maine Children’s Cancer Program to provide families the support and resources they need during these tough battles.”

In March, Holland told his mother that his legs hurt. Sensing something wasn’t right, his parents brought him to the emergency room to be checked out. Because Holland also had protein in his urine at his physical a few days before, he had blood drawn to rule out anything unusual. After receiving the bloodwork results, the ER physician sent Holland to Maine Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with acute leukemia the following day.

Through all of his surgeries and intense treatment, Holland has remained positive and kept his sense of humor. Holland enjoys many activities including reading anything he can get his hands on, playing baseball, conducting chemistry experiments, building electrical circuits, woodcarving, picking wild berries, bike riding, and swimming.

“These special ceremonies at the ballpark never grow old; each one celebrates a new patient, lauding them for the obstacles that they’ve overcome and the milestones that they’ve reached,” said Grace Jandro, philanthropy manager at the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. “We thank Anthem for supporting our cause, and honoring the bravery of our young heroes!”

The Anthem Heroes at Hadlock program provides children who have battled a serious medical condition a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Hadlock Field. Each honoree takes a celebratory home run lap around the bases of Hadlock Field prior to a Portland Sea Dogs home game. The children and their families also receive other VIP privileges at the game. The Anthem Heroes at Hadlock program will recognize one more courageous kid this season prior to the game on Sept. 1.