The Buffalo Bills were honored Saturday at the annual Make-A-Wish Gala at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino for their outstanding efforts to make the wishes of children battling cancer come true.
"As the team representing our city of good neighbors, the Bills live up to that name," said Channel 2 news anchor Melissa Holmes, who hosted the gala alongside Patrick Hammer. "Their compassion is ever-present in the community, supporting various local causes, hosting kids football camps and visiting patients in hospitals."
Bills vice president of community relations Gretchen Geitter accepted the award on behalf of the Buffalo Bills.
"What you do to ensure that there are resources and systems in place to provide wishes for these amazing children and their families is simply awesome," Geitter said of the impact of Make-A-Wish Western NY. "Every time we get a call, it's we who are the ones who feel blessed. It's an honor to be in a situation where we can help to provide access and experiences to help make some of these wishes a reality and for that we are truly grateful."
At the gala, Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced via video that yet another Bills' fan wish was coming true.
Tensyn, a young child who is undergoing treatment for cancer, is a passionate Bills fan, watching games in the hospital decked out in his Buffalo gear. McDermott told Tensyn that he would be spending the day at One Bills Drive over the offseason, getting the chance to meet some of his favorite players and make lifelong memories with his family.
"Tensyn, we can't wait to have you in Buffalo to join us for a special day this spring. See you soon," McDermott said.
Through various donations and auction items, including a meet and greet event with Bills Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, a golfing trip with Bills Hall of Famer Andre Reed and numerous signed helmets and footballs, the 2024 Make-A-Wish Gala raised $500,000 to continue the organization's efforts to better the lives of those experiencing unimaginable difficulties.
