When Kevin Ellis scored in Sporting Kansas City’s 6-2 US Open Cup romp against FC Dallas on May 29, he lifted his jersey to reveal a special message for his biggest fan:
#GoKitGo
The 24-year-old defender had the slogan emblazoned across his undershirt, declaring his support of 2-year-old Kit Van Sickle in her battle against cancer.
Kit, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in February, met Ellis at Sporting Park in mid-May, during the annual calendar photo shoot for Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer – a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds to help battle childhood cancers.
The two paired off for the photo shoot, with Kit overcoming initial shyness and warming up to Ellis. The Homegrown product and his wife visited Kit and her family in the hospital soon after, kicking off a friendship that culminated with Ellis’ celebration against FCD.
For more on the heartwarming story of Kevin and Kit check out the above video, which initially aired as part of SKC’s pregame show ahead of Wednesday’s draw at Portland.
For more info on Kit's battle against cancer – and how you can help – click here.
