Experiences
Heartland Hospice Patient Receives "Heart's Desire" to Meet Quarterback Kirk Cousins
When Michelle Bates, Social Worker for Heartland Hospice serving Tide Water, asked patient Joan Lankford what her one heart’s desire would be, Joan quickly stated a day at the Washington Redskins training camp to meet quarterback, Kirk Cousins. Given this information, Michelle contacted her administrator, Jessica Beauchamp to see how they could fulfill her heart’s desire.
“I knew we had to make this happen for Joan,” said Jessica, “so I quickly made several phone calls and sent some emails to the Redskins.” Jessica received a call from the Manager of Community and Charitable Programs for the Washington Redskins. He guaranteed VIP passes for Joan to attend training camp but he couldn’t promise anything additional.
On the big day, Jessica escorted Joan to the Redskins training camp facility in Richmond, Virginia. A member of the Charitable Team greeted Joan upon arrival then registered her and the group at the VIP tent. The group was then led to the Owner’s Tent on the practice fields where refreshments and cold drinks were waiting for all. They also helped Joan to get comfortable and out of the direct sunlight as it can exacerbate her condition.
The Charitable Team presented Joan with a Redskins duffle bag full of team apparel including t-shirts, blankets, hats, socks and even pajama pants. All enjoyed watching the walk through practice session. After an hour of practice, Kirk Cousins stopped by the tent to meet Joan. He gave her his undivided attention and truly fulfilled her last heart’s desire. He signed a football for Joan as well as her shirt and hat. “We are so thankful to the Redskins for allowing Joan to have this incredible moment,” said Jessica.





