4-Year-Old Alsip Cancer Patient's 'Ultimate Wish' Fulfilled By Chicago White Sox

ALSIP, IL—A Macarena-loving 4-year-old from Alsip got her ultimate wish fulfilled with a behind-the-scenes clubhouse tour, White Sox goodies and pregame “Home Run for Life ahead of the Sox matchup against Kansas City.

Resilient Melanie Marquez is currently being treated for medulloblastoma, a form of pediatric brain cancer.

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Melanie, her brother, Isaac, 5, and her parents, Eric and Karla Marquez, enjoyed a full ballpark experience at Rate Field ahead of the Sox matchup against Kansas City.

In addition to the clubhouse tour, Melanie and her family got to view batting practice and pose for on-field family photos. As part of her visit, Melanie participated in a special pregame “Home Run for Life,” rounding the bases and receiving high fives from the big league players and coaches.

The family was surprised with a $10,000 check on behalf of the Andrew Weishar Foundation, which provides financial assistance and seeks to uplift families with children and teens battling cancer.

A resilient and spirited young artist, Melanie is known for performing the “Macarena” before each radiation and high-dose chemotherapy session. Melanie and Isaac took in all the memorable moments of the day, designed to create an uplifting, unforgettable experience during the family’s treatment journey.

Melanie also recently partnered with the Sox and CIBC to help design a special hat gate giveaway, scheduled for Childhood Cancer Awareness Day on Sunday, September 6 vs. Minnesota (first 10,000 fans). Her hat—which the organizations have produced and presented to her family—reflects her love for flowers and includes personal touches, such as her handprints and autograph.

The White Sox “ultimate wish” fulfillment is an extension of Sox Serve Week, an annual fundraising campaign benefiting Chicago White Sox Charities and engaging Sox fans and the Chicagoland community. For more information, visit White Sox Charities.