Louisville, KY (April 21, 2016) – The KFC Yum! Center is again opening its doors to the public on Saturday, April 23 for the ultimate Thunder Viewing Party and this year, two families deserving of an enjoyable evening will have the opportunity to experience one of Louisville’s premier events like never before. AEG Facilities’ KFC Yum! Center, in collaboration with Kids Cancer Alliance, have selected the Sizemore family and the Collins family to enjoy all of the same benefits of those who purchase a table at the KFC Yum! Center’s annual Thunder experience. This includes a complementary parking pass, dinner and dessert buffet, deejay taking requests, cash bar, access to private restrooms, in and out privileges and a breathtaking panoramic view of the fireworks and air show.
Kids Cancer Alliance has played an important role in the lives of both the Sizemore and Collins families for years.
The Sizemores’ lives changed in an instant in 2013 when their son Wesley was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Burkitts Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, after being taken to the emergency room for what they thought might be a virus. While at Kosair they were introduced to Kids Cancer Alliance and loved that the organization provided a way for all the children to have time to be kids and have moments to forget about everything that comes along with cancer treatment. Wesley is now in remission and no longer in the hospital; however, Kids Cancer Alliance is still a very big part of their lives. They count down the days to Family Retreat, quarterly events, summer camps, festivals and many other events because Wesley lights up, is relaxed, and able to be himself with no worries when he is around his KCA family. Wesley has a little brother, Jackson. Not
only has Kids Cancer Alliance gone over and beyond for Wesley, they understand that the siblings of children with cancer go through a great deal as well. Jackson is able to enjoy all the things KCA offers as well as having the chance to attend Sibling Summer Camp.
From the time that Jonathan Collins was very young, Kids Cancer Alliance has been a part of his life. Jonathan was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, muscular cancer in his jaw, when he was 18 months old. He went through chemotherapy and radiation therapies along with surgery. Jonathan is now 8 years old and recently celebrated his 5 year cancer-free milestone! Jonathan's self-confidence seems to grow at every KCA event the family attends. These events also help restore part of his childhood that cancer took away and his mom notes that she “sees him transform into a brave boy whereas before he was once very reluctant to venture out because of fear. We see this newfound adventuresome spirit carry over into our home.”
“It is a privilege to be able to provide this experience for the Sizemore and Collins families,” said KFC Yum! Center General Manager Dennis Petrullo. “It has been a joy to partner with Kids Cancer Alliance over the years to provide meaningful experiences for the families they serve. From meet & greets with the Harlem Globetrotters to special sections at NBA preseason games, the KFC Yum! Center is honored to continue its relationship with this exemplary organization.”
The waterfront arena’s third floor party room, which overlooks the Second Street Bridge, is the best place to enjoy the fireworks and air shows no matter the weather. Tables of 10, 4 and 2 at the KFC Yum! Center Thunder Viewing Party are still available for purchase. Individual tickets are not available. Interested individuals, groups or businesses should contact KFC Yum! Center Senior Director of Premium Sales, Robbie Valentine at RValentine@kfcyumcenter.com. For more information, visit https://www.kfcyumcenter.com/events/thunder-viewing-party.