York Hospital Cancer Survivor Takes the Mound for Ceremonial First Pitch on Cancer Survivors Day

Three years after his cancer diagnosis, cancer survivor Dan Baldwin stepped onto the mound at Hadlock Field in Portland, Maine to throw out the ceremonial first pitch during Cancer Survivors Day celebrations on June 7.

Baldwin, a former Transportation Services driver at York Hospital, was joined by his wife, daughter, cancer care team, and fellow supporters as he kicked off the Portland Sea Dogs game against the Hartford Yard Goats. The Sea Dogs went on to secure a 3–1 victory, making the day even more memorable. Baldwin is shown here, holding his baseball, with York Hospital Oncology and Infusion Care Social Worker Susan Kelly-Westman at his side. 

Kelly-Westman said the event was a perfect fit for this year’s Cancer Survivors Day theme, “Strike Out Cancer.”

“The Portland Sea Dogs generously donated tickets and invited Dan to throw out the first pitch,” said Kelly-Westman. “It was a wonderful way to celebrate survivors and support cancer patients across Maine.”

“I am so happy to be here with the loves of my life—my wife Lily and daughter Autumn,” said Baldwin. “As a three-year cancer survivor, I’m incredibly grateful to the York Hospital team for the life-saving care I’ve received.” 

Throughout June, York Hospital is recognizing cancer survivors with special gift bags featuring “Strike Out Cancer” baseball caps, snacks, stress balls, and other themed items to honor patients on their treatment journeys.

The celebration also highlights the impact of the hospital’s transportation program, supported in part by a two-year grant from the Maine Cancer Foundation. The program helps cancer patients overcome transportation barriers to treatment by providing dedicated rides to and from appointments.

“The grant allows us to better meet the needs of oncology patients who often require frequent medical visits and may not be able to drive themselves,” said York Hospital Philanthropy Manager Hilary Leonhard.

One transportation program participant shared: “The York Hospital ride program has been one of the most supportive services I’ve ever used. The drivers treat me with kindness and dignity, and their reliability has taken so much stress out of getting to my appointments.”

If you would like to contribute to the York Hospital Living Well With Cancer Transportation Fund, please visit https://www.yorkhospital.com/donate/ and write TRANSPORTATION in the comments section or contact Hilary Leonhard at York Hospital, (207) 351-3430 or Hilary.Leonhard@yorkhospital.com.