Phillies host sleepover for kids receiving treatments at local hospitals

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - It may be the off-season for the Phillies but that's not keeping some children from having a great night at the ballpark.

Nine children got a much needed break from cancer treatments and other doctor mandated rules Friday.

7-year-old Kiernan Clark was selected for the party and sleepover. He's been through so many surgeries.

"He's getting ready for his 37th surgery on the 28th," his dad said.

And then, there's 9-year-old Patrick Vanderslice who was diagnosed with a rare leukemia this summer. He's happy to be doing anything other than sitting in a hospital bed or staying at home getting chemo meds day-in and day-out

"This is awesome. This is really an outstanding thing the Phillies put together for the kids who are in need of an upbeat boost," his dad, Jason Vanderslice said.

The kids were treated to the goofy antics of the Philly Phanatic and got their own space in the clubhouse. They also got a lot of Phillies swag and a chance to hit balls in the batting cage.

They also got one-on-one time with Phillies starting pitcher Zach Eflin who happily volunteered to spend the night. Zach lost his sister to leukemia.

"Just being able to be with these kids honors my sister in a way that I'll be doing really just touches my heart and all the kids hearts," he said.