On Sept. 10, in Dayton, Texas, the University of St. Thomas-Houston baseball team rallied to celebrate the seventh birthday of a young boy, Michael Laine Ead, who has captured their hearts as the team's IMPACT player. Team IMPACT matches children facing serious illness and disability with college sports teams to create long-term, life-changing experiences.

UST Head Baseball Coach Torry Peterson and his family joined 15 players, and Assistant Coach Dacota Kauffman made a special appearance.

“What an incredible day it was for our coaching staff and players who attended,” Coach Peterson affirmed. “Michael is a young kid who has been through so much and endured a ton of challenges in seven years. You would never know he is going through what he is dealing with. His demeanor and outlook on life are so positive and infectious and it permeates all those who surround him.”

The birthday bash was basketball-themed, with a colossal inflatable water slide towering over the front yard, drawing the kids and players alike. Also, a pinata shaped like a basketball brought cheers as it showered candy and toys upon impact. Hot dogs, nachos, and a feast of food and drinks were enjoyed, but the most cherished moments were spent in fellowship with Michael and his family throughout the day.

“Michael looks at all of our guys as big brothers and loves them so much,” Coach Peterson added. “Being able to spend the day with him as he celebrated his seventh birthday is a milestone for the Celt program as he brings so much joy to us. We can’t wait to spend many more birthdays with Michael.”

UST's Baseball Team has been connected to Michael for a year and a half.  Michael has Shone's Variant Complex, which is a congenital heart defect, and pulmonary hypertension. The courageous youngster has had four open heart surgeries and has a mechanical mitrial valve which requires him to have frequent blood work. He has coded multiple times, and has had two cardiac arrests. Michael's loving family describes him as “God's amazing walking miracle.”

About Team IMPACT

Team IMPACT’s unique multiyear program matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletic teams across the country. Its mission is to guide children and teams alike in a mutually beneficial relationship of belonging, empowerment and resilience.

Through this program, the Team IMPACT vision is to create a world where every child facing serious illness and disability feels supported by something more significant and every team is transformed by a greater purpose. When we’re all in together, we all win together.

For more information on Team IMPACT, click here!