Heartland Care and Rehab roots for Cardinals at the ball game

It was a big night out for Heartland Care and Rehab when the 35 residents and staff attended a St. Louis Cardinals game July 2. Residents and staff have attended games for the past 12 years, but this was the biggest group ever.

The Cardinals defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks by eight runs, leaving the group full of glee. But the celebration had started long before they even arrived as they caravanned in six vans and sport utility vehicles decorated with Cardinals images to show their pride in their favorite team. Surrounding motorists showed their support by honking in response to the signage painted on the Heartland vehicles: "Honk if you love the Cardinals."

Heartland Care and Rehab director Glenda Cato said the group was fortunate this year to book the Jack Buck Party Room where residents who are vulnerable to the heat could watch the game in air-conditioned comfort.

Proceeds from car washes and barbecues held regularly for several weeks before the trip paid for tickets and the party room.

The Cape Girardeau nursing facility group received the royal treatment once it reached its destination. Free souvenir pins and baseball cards were distributed and, upon leaving the parking garage, city police stopped traffic to allow the group of residents using wheelchairs, walkers and assisted walkers get across the street.

Another highlight for residents at Heartland Care and Rehab was the billboard at the stadium that read "Heartland Loves the Cardinals."