ALEXANDRIA, VA-On a rainy December afternoon, the festive atmosphere at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital was brightened by a visit from D.C. United players and their mascot, Talon. As part of their expanding partnership with Inova Sports Medicine, the players took time to meet with patients, sign autographs, and join hospital staff in wrapping gifts for families. But the event, which aimed to lift spirits during the holiday season, was more than just a meet-and-greet; it was a heartfelt integration of therapy and community support.
Patients at the hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation unit were invited to a “Winter Market,” where they “shopped” for gifts to give to their families and friends. The experience, which incorporated occupational, physical, and speech therapy, allowed patients to engage in therapeutic activities while contributing to the joy of others. This year, D.C. United generously donated gifts to stock the Winter Market, helping ensure that patients could share the spirit of giving with loved ones.
“This is my first visit at a hospital and I think it is important to be here—especially in rehab during the holidays—to bring them joy in times that can be difficult to he here,” said Jacob Murrell, a recent signing for United who grew up in Forest Hill, MD and played for Georgetown University before he was drafted to MLS. “It is really cool opportunity for me and for them, I hope.”
Aby Darlington, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, explained the significance of such visits: “Our patients come from various backgrounds, including those recovering from neurological disorders, orthopedic injuries, and spinal cord injuries. For them, an event like this provides not only therapy but also a connection to something outside of their immediate medical challenges.”
Inova’s rehabilitation services integrate a diverse team, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, and neuropsychologists, who work closely with patients to help them regain independence. Darlington emphasized that while therapy is key, the emotional boost provided by community partners like D.C. United is equally important during the holiday season.
The players’ involvement extended beyond the Winter Market. Inova also received a substantial holiday donation from D.C. United, including hundreds of t-shirts and soccer equipment. The t-shirts will be distributed to patients who may lack clothing following an injury or illness, while the soccer equipment will be used in therapy exercises, providing both a practical and lasting impact.
The event underscored the growing partnership between Inova Sports Medicine and D.C. United. With the club now under the care of Inova’s world-class medical team, the visit solidified the connection between the two organizations, which continue to support the local community.
As the event came to an end, hospital staff, many of whom wore D.C. United red T-shirts to help amplify the festive spirit, gathered outside to bid farewell to the players. Laughter echoed through the halls, offering patients a much-needed moment of relief from their daily challenges.
The visit was a reminder of the power of sports to unite communities and bring positivity, especially during the holiday season. Through their partnership with Inova, D.C. United is making a lasting impact both on and off the field.
Susan McLain Sullivan contributed to this report.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to clarify that the event took place at Mount Vernon Hospital, not Alexandria Hospital.
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