Alexandria, VA – On a warm Saturday morning, joy and community spirit filled the air outside a Dunkin’ on Richmond Highway in Alexandria as fans gathered for a special appearance by the Savannah Bananas, the wildly popular baseball team known for their entertaining, Globetrotter-style antics on the field. But for one young boy, the event became much more than a chance to meet his favorite players—it became a moment of hope and happiness in the middle of a challenging journey.
A Day to Remember for Sebastian Banh
Nine-year-old Sebastian Banh, who was diagnosed with brain cancer earlier this year, was the center of a heartwarming surprise during the fan meet-and-greet. In front of a crowd of hundreds, Sebastian was gifted five free tickets to Saturday night’s Savannah Bananas game, a gesture that brought a bright smile to his face and moved everyone present.
“Sebastian’s had a tough year. The little excitement and smiles that he has just lifts our spirits,” said Tammy Banh, Sebastian’s mother.
Sebastian, a huge baseball fan, was not only thrilled to meet players from the Savannah Bananas and their rival team, the Firefighters, but also received some added surprises—Dunkin’ merchandise and free ice cream—making the experience even sweeter.
Community Partnership in Action
The feel-good moment was made possible by a collaboration between Dunkin’, the Savannah Bananas, and the Children’s National Hospital Foundation. Dunkin’, a long-time supporter of Children’s National, extended the invitation to the Banh family as part of their ongoing efforts to give back to the community.
“This has been one of the most exciting days ever,” said Meagan Davis, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications at Children’s National Hospital Foundation. “Seeing the joy on Sebastian and his family’s faces when he was surprised with tickets for the Savannah Bananas is just stellar.”
Davis helped coordinate the special moment, ensuring Sebastian had front-row access to both the game and the Bananas players.
Fans Flock to Dunkin’ for a Bananas Bash
The Savannah Bananas appearance drew hundreds of fans, who lined up around the building for a chance to meet their favorite players. Players greeted supporters, signed baseballs, posed for photos, and even helped serve customers their coffee and donuts—all ahead of their matchup later that evening.
“A big part of our mantra is giving back to our community, and that’s exactly what this is,” said John Lunsmann, Area Business Consultant for Maryland, D.C., and Virginia for Dunkin’. “Personally, it gives me so much gratitude to be part of the environment we’re in.”
An Ongoing Battle with Inspiring Strength
Sebastian’s health journey began in February, when he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Since then, he has undergone rounds of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Yet, throughout the ups and downs, his family says that moments like Saturday’s help lift his spirits.
“He’s super excited to see the Savannah Bananas,” said his mom. “He’s a big baseball fan so he’s super excited to go.”
More Than a Game
For the Savannah Bananas, known for their viral dances, showmanship, and love of community, Saturday’s surprise was a perfect example of what the team stands for—fun, unity, and heart.
As the Banh family posed for photos with the players, smiles lit up their faces, reflecting the power of kindness and community to make a real difference—even if just for one afternoon.
In the middle of a challenging year, a baseball game became a beacon of hope for Sebastian and a reminder to all that small gestures can have a lasting impact.
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