From Brandee Banda,

My favorite Condors memory would have to be a chance meeting with a few of the players during the off season. I had just got out of the hospital after being tested for Breast Cancer. We had taken my grandparents to The Holiday Inn to get them a room, and as I sat crying in my car I noticed Reagan Leslie walking up. I tried my best to dry my tears to say hello, but Reagan could see the pain I was trying to hide. As I tried to make small talk Reagan seemed more interested in why I was crying. I tried to change the subject and asked what he was up to instead. He explained that he and a few of the other players were headed out to a baseball game and I should come in to say hi. (Of course I agreed!) Trying to pull myself together I followed him inside where I met Kevin St. Jacques. Right away they noticed my hospital band, and again started to ask me why I was so upset. As I explained my situation I began to cry and was shocked when Jocko's eyes began to tear as well. He so sweetly offered great words of encouragement and was full of lots of hugs for his new friend. (Which seemed to be just what I needed at that moment.) I told them I was SO thankful for the charity work the Condors have done for Links for Life, and how it made it possible for me to have the needed tests done. As more players arrived I was able to meet them, hang out, and get a fantastic picture with them all. I will NEVER forget what Kevin said, as well as the love, support, prayers and friendships that were offered that day to a scared young lady just hoping for the best. They did not treat me like a fan that day, but more like a life long friend that needed a little pick-me-up. With every test, I get scared. But I just close my eyes and think back to that day and remember what they said to me... "When you get nervous or scared just remember to take it one slap shot at a time!" I am happy to report that my last tests came back negative and Cancer free! Thanks again for all the love you guys gave that day... I WILL NEVER FORGET IT!!!

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