Jaelyn Kirby rejoined the Rice baseball team this week, but this time her proximity and connection to the team were much closer, both physically and emotionally.
In late February, 16-year-old Jaelyn, a patient at Texas Children’s Hospital due to complications from her rare genetic condition known as Marfan syndrome, watched Rice’s February 20th baseball game from her hospital room on the 23rd floor.
After pictures of her experience circulated widely, Rice baseball players paid her a visit the next day, exclusively covered by. Players Parker Smith, J.D. McCracken, and Kyte McDonald met Jaelyn at the hospital, bringing along Rice Owls merchandise and extending an invitation for her to throw the first pitch at an upcoming game.
Before the Owls’ Saturday game against Stanford, amidst the backdrop of the medical center and with Parker Smith as the catcher, Jaelyn delivered the ceremonial first pitch, an experience she will cherish forever.
“This past week has been incredible – one of the best weeks of my life. I’m thrilled to be here. I wish I could stay here forever and not be back on the 23rd floor,” Jaelyn shared with, unable to contain her excitement.
Reflecting on the gesture, Parker Smith, a graduate of Bellaire High School, emphasized the importance of bringing joy to people’s lives. “It’s simply about doing what’s right and spreading happiness. It’s ingrained in us to do what’s right,” he expressed.
Jaelyn’s presence in Houston for the weekend was already planned. Earlier that day, she, along with family and friends, participated in the Marfan Syndrome Walk for Victory at Discovery Green, an event that raised over $138,000 in 2024 to support individuals affected by the rare disease that impacts the heart, eyes, and skeletal system.
