By Jennifer Logue
Resident Community News
Twelve young people battling life-threatening illnesses participated in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl “Dream Team Signing Day” at EverBank Stadium Aug. 1.
Through a partnership between Gator Bowl Charities and the nonprofit Dreams Come True, the Dream Team will participate in six months of special events and activities, culminating in January at the 2025 Gator Bowl.
Greg McGarity, president and CEO of Gator Bowl Sports, welcomed guests to the signing event, where the 12 team members signed their certificates to participate in the Dream Team events.
Member of this year’s Dream Team include Te’Von Berry, 16; Jared Cook, 15; Kennedy Harris, 8; Jase Holden, 11; Kasey Ladd, 8; Leonard “Trey” Love, 17; Luke Masiak, 9; Kylee Mathis, 15; Brynley Richardson, 3; Seth Rowe, 13; Marshawn Wilson, 10; and Leonard “Leo” Wortham, 11.
Ashley Smith of Dreams Come True note that Dream Team members have been treated at local hospitals for conditions ranging from spina bifida and Williams Syndrome to acute lymphoblastic leukemia and range in age from 17 down to the youngest-ever Dream Team member, 3-year-old Brynley.
“Brynley loves football,” Smith said while holding the toddler. “What do the Jaguars say, Brynley?”
“Duuuuuvaalll,” she replied.
Prior to signing their certificates, Dream Team members learned of the numerous activities in which they’ll participate between now and the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. In addition to attending monthly membership socials, team members and their families will travel to Gainesville for a “scouting trip” to watch a University of Florida football game. They will also attend the Gator Bowl’s official holiday party, attend football games and receive official Gator Bowl green jackets.
The experience will culminate Jan. 2, 2025, at the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, where the Dream Team will get to meet players, coaches and be recognized on the field.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet previous Dream Teams,” Justin Contreras of presenting sponsor First Citizens Bank told the Dream Team. “And I can honestly say, you’re going to have the time of your lives.”
Bringing light
For the families of the Dream Team, the experience brings some much-needed joy to the children’s lives.
“I think it’s so incredible for organizations to take what is a really dark time and bring a little light to it,” said Melanie Harris, mother of Dream Team member Kennedy Harris. “It gives the kids a chance to be with other kids their age who are like them and know what they’re going through.”
Kennedy was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in September 2023, just days before her 8th birthday after her mother had noticed some unusual bruising. The effect on the family’s life was immediate.
“Before that, cancer was always just a sad St. Jude’s commercial – you always think it’s not going to happen to you,” Harris said. “No parent can imagine the nightmare.”
The family also didn’t realize how lengthy the treatment would be.
“She began this journey in first grade and will finish it in fourth,” Harris said. “That’s her childhood. We’re just so grateful for this (Dream Team) opportunity, because she has missed out on so much.”
Stacey Rowe, mother of Dream Team member Seth Rowe, agreed.
“I think it’s awesome for him to get some recognition after all he’s been through,” she said.
Seth, 13, has battled brain tumors twice. He was selected for the Dream Team after Dreams Come True granted his dream of taking a Disney cruise to the Bahamas. Thanks to being selected for the Dream Team, he has a new reason to look forward to the future. Said Seth: “I’m excited for the adventures!”
