The College World Series always seems to have some of the most special storylines in all of sports, but on this Father's Day, and earlier this week we watched a special story unfold.
Mississippi State fan Matt Lea lives 12 hours from his father who is battling Alzheimer’s Disease. That didn't stop him from giving him the surprise of a lifetime for Father's Day.
"Surprised my dad today to tell him I’m taking him to Omaha to watch @HailStateBB play. His Alzheimer’s is setting in fast but I know he’s going to have a blast this weekend. Hail State!!!," Lea said on Twitter.
Surprised my dad today to tell him I’m taking him to Omaha to watch @HailStateBB play. His Alzheimer’s is setting in fast but I know he’s going to have a blast this weekend. Hail State!!! pic.twitter.com/NTtAxcxxIj
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 14, 2018
Lea's father played baseball at Mississippi State during his college years.
My sister sent me this picture of my dad in his uniform freshman year. He’s in the middle. Do you have these throwbacks on the bus @HailStateBB?#finalmemories pic.twitter.com/F9b2cYhKjT
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 15, 2018
Lea documented the special trip on his Twitter account:
We’re off. Thanks for all the support. I’ve had many people reach out about paying for our meals, hotel, etc. I’m very grateful for that but if you’re willing to do that, just make a contribution to the Alzheimer’s fund. I’ll try to keep this journey updated as we go. pic.twitter.com/9MdBZU4127
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 14, 2018
A few pictures from the road. Really didn’t get many chances at pictures on the drive. Got the pyramid in Memphis, some rocks in Arkansas, and a hose and buggy in Missouri. #finalmemories pic.twitter.com/nKAb1cJZlG
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 15, 2018
Here we come Omaha. Thanks again to everyone. Dad jumped out of bed this morning and is in a great mood. pic.twitter.com/fmLArHB5qx
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 15, 2018
Having a great time and meeting some great people. pic.twitter.com/h2HXYMlxJ6
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 15, 2018
The Mecca...it can’t be Carnegie Hall because we all know where that is. #newdude pic.twitter.com/TIsnTTKF0K
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 15, 2018
Thank you Omaha and the CWS/NCAA for all the hospitality. Had a good morning exploring. The heat and walking is tough so we’re resting in the hotel until @HailStateBB takes the field. Can’t wait to watch the dawgs take the field. pic.twitter.com/gG2tVh3ayp
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 16, 2018
Alright @HailStateBB we have the rally bananas now. pic.twitter.com/qLUOEpPH0k
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 17, 2018
Mississippi State sent Lea and his father out on quite a high note, winning in walk-off fashion for the third time this postseason.
Thanks to everyone that made today something we’ll treasure forever. We have a couple things to do tomorrow before have to head home. @HailStateBB keep grinding and believe. You’re a team of destiny. pic.twitter.com/GamW2sEJ9i
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 17, 2018
Thank you @HailStateBB for everything. You’ve given us an incredible time together. Thank you to all that have offered room/tickets for the rest of the games. Dad needs to get home back into his routine and familiar surroundings. Now go get a championship!!!!! pic.twitter.com/5Y0NNORIoo
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 17, 2018
Finally, to everyone that has reached out to share their personal stories thank you. It’s brought tears to my eyes knowing that we could bring some light to your life. Happy Father’s day to everyone. https://t.co/kvrpGUHHBw to donate. #ENDALZ
— Matt Lea (@tigr2ndbase) June 17, 2018
To make a contribution to the Alzheimer's fund, visit ALZ.org.
