Bacary Sambou, a participant at NeuroRestorative Avalon Park, was honored for his military service during two events held over Veterans Day weekend.
On Friday, Nov. 7, Bacary attended Orlando Magic’s “Seats for Soldiers Night,” the professional basketball team’s annual night of recognizing active and retired military personnel and their families. Bacary, along with three other military members, watched the Orlando Magic face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves. After the game’s first quarter, Bacary was escorted to the court for the Veterans’ presentation. The recognition was followed by a post-game reception with local military members and players, including one on the opposing team who is also from Bacary’s home country of Senegal, West Africa. The player met with Bacary prior to the game for a conversation in their native tongue.
After the “Seats for Soldiers Night” event held at the Orlando Magic’s Stadium, a ground breaking ceremony was held for Bacary a few days later on Veterans Day. Local non-profits, Fairways for Warriors, Palm Harbor Homes, and Hannibal Square Land Trust, decided that Bacary, due to his military service and dedication, is an ideal candidate to receive a newly-built home in Winter Park, FL. The ceremony was held to honor Bacary for his military service and break ground for his new home.
Approximately 30 people attended the ceremony, including representatives from the non-profits, local fraternity members, NeuroRestorative staff, Bacary’s sister, Florida Congressman John Mica, photographers and other community and neighborhood members.
“As Bacary is ready to leave NeuroRestorative and move onto the next chapter in his life, this home will be ideal for him. Bacary will have access to an active neighborhood, including the community center, a farmer’s market, a community college and a recreation center close by,” said Robin McInnis, Case Manager for NeuroRestorative.
“The entire weekend experience was great for Bacary. He’s not typically a man of many words, but after people made speeches during the ground breaking ceremony, he decided to speak on his own. He thanked everyone for their support and for the house that’s being built for him. He also thanked NeuroRestorative for the good care he’s received,” said McInnis.
“It was a special day,” she added.
(*Photo: Bacary Sambou and Congressman John Mica engage in a conversation during the ground breaking ceremony held on Veterans Day.)