Gov. Hogan Spends Time With Other Cancer Patients At Redskins Game

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- Maryland Governor Larry Hogan invited fellow cancer patients to spend time with him at the Washington Redskins season home opener.

Christie Ileto spoke to one of the kids who walked onto Fed Ex Field with him and has more on the moment he'll never forget.

At first glance, he was like any other five-year-old, but Andrew Oberle's story is one he shared with Governor Hogan.

It's a moment most five-year-olds don't ever get: a packed stadium, a walk on Fed Ex Field and a conversation with Governor Hogan, the man who invited him to watch Sunday's game.

"He loved my card; I made him a good luck card for cancer," Andrew said.

He shares one thing in common with the man running Maryland: cancer. And that's why he and other cancer patients with the nonprofit Cool Kids stepped out on to the field, calling attention to those battling the disease. It's part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Since announcing his fight with stage three non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Governor Hogan has shared his very personal battle publicly. He's posted regular treatment updates on Facebook and cracked jokes during press conferences.

"I told him, you think he's an inspiration to you; you're an inspiration to us," said Caroline Oberle.

Hogan calls himself an unexpected advocate for cancer patients and even set up the fundraiser Hogan Strong, which has raised $35,000.

Andrew got the green lymphoma awareness bracelet from the governor and he gave Governor Hogan some words of advice.

"To be brave," he said. "Brave and strong and powerful."

Tuesday, Governor Hogan will house a blood drive outside the State House.

Later this week, Governor Hogan will join children battling cancer at an Orioles game and will also participate in a program at the Ravens' home opener at the end of the month.