Home Run for Life: Surprise base run at South Bend Cubs celebrates young patient’s incredible recovery

This story features a Beacon Children’s Hospital patient who will be running the bases in our Home Run for Life program — a partnership between Beacon Health System and the South Bend Cubs. We will be featuring the heartfelt stories of each patient who is participating in this program throughout the summer.

Syl’viah Williams is a fighter. The 9 year old has faced more challenges than most will in a lifetime. But if you met her today, you’d see only her radiant smile, her love for arts and fashion, and a spirit too strong to break. Her journey is one of courage, resilience and a battle that nearly took everything from her.

It started about a year ago with a terrifying discovery.

One night, Syl’viah’s father went to check on her and found her unresponsive, turning a peaceful evening into a nightmare. He rushed her to Beacon Children’s Hospital. By the time her mother, Jessica Tshimanga, arrived, Syl’viah was on a breathing tube, caught in a battle for her life.

Although the Williams family had no history of diabetes, Syl’viah’s blood sugar had skyrocketed above 1,200—more than 1,000 above normal. The diagnosis was a shock. She was airlifted to Riley Hospital for immediate treatment and remained in a coma for nearly four days.

Jessica sat by her side, desperate. “I just wanted her to wake up,” she shared.

When Syl’viah finally opened her eyes, relief washed over her family, but the fight wasn’t over. Diabetic ketoacidosis led to the loss of part of her leg, and she had to learn how to navigate a new reality. Through it all, her spirit has never wavered. She has faced each challenge with courage and as she enters the 4th grade this fall, she looks forward to receiving her prosthetic leg.

Tonight (Friday, July 18), her mom has a big surprise in store for Syl’viah.

When they arrive for a South Bend Cubs game, Syl’viah will get to round the bases in celebration of her strength and determination as part of the Home Run for Life program. It’s a moment that will shine a spotlight on just how far she’s come, and all that lies ahead. Syl’viah doesn’t hesitate when asked about her future career path.

“I want to be a basketball player and a teacher,” Syl’viah told WNDU in a recent interview about Home Run for Life.

Syl’viah’s journey is one of resilience, hope, and the unwavering support of those who stood by her side. Her story is a testament to the incredible care at Beacon Children’s Hospital and the power of a determined little girl who refuses to be defined by what she has lost, but rather by all that she continues to conquer.

More from the South Bend Cubs and WNDU

Hear more about Syl’viah’s journey in this South Bend Cubs game preview. Horizon Transport is sponsoring this week’s Home Run for Life game at the South Bend Cubs. Every dollar raised during the game will be matched by Horizon Transport and will benefit Beacon Children’s Hospital. Every donation supports kids like Syl’viah and helps us continue providing life-changing care right here in our community. We will post WNDU’s interview with Syl’viah soon.