Professional Bowlers Association

Last week, Danny Wiseman fulfilled the dream of two children who have been battling brain cancer – Steven Hanson and Chase Weese – both of whom dreamed of someday bowling with the 11-time Denny’s PBA Tour titlist.

Wiseman met Chase, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor at age three, last summer after his father, Frank, sent him an email. They saw Wiseman practice before the Tour started in October and though they were not able to bowl together at that time, Frank kept in touch with Wiseman regarding Chase’s condition.

Wiseman met Steven, who was diagnosed at age seven with a brain tumor, through Brian Bennett, who owns the Pro Shop at AMF Timonium Lanes and was a childhood friend of Wiseman’s. He contacted Wiseman through e-mail about Steven and his life-threatening condition. Steven’s dreams were to swim with Olympic champion Michael Phelps and to bowl with Wiseman. Last year he had the opportunity to swim with Phelps.

Last Monday, Wiseman received a phone call from Steven’s father who said Steven had become very ill and wasn’t going to be able to make their planned bowling meeting at which Wiseman was going to have Chase meet Steven. The next day, Wiseman received a phone call from Bennett who said Steven was at the lanes bowling. Wiseman immediately called Frank and he was on his way, as was Wiseman.

“When I got to the center Stevie’s eyes lit up,” said Wiseman. “He was so excited but in so much pain. He had been bowling before I got there and had chemotherapy earlier so he was very tired.”

Frank came in soon after with Chase and his little brother, Cory. The boys all met as did Steven’s parents, Steve and Betsy. After taking several photos, the boys and Wiseman hit the lanes.

“Frank always tells me that when the PBA Tour is on TV, Chase emulates the players and bowls in the house all the time, without a ball of course,” said Wiseman. “It’s his favorite sport. Frank is signing both Chase and Cory up for leagues this coming summer. Stevie, on the other hand, is constantly at the lanes. He’s been bowling for only six months.”

The boys were able to bowl four games with Wiseman, who said they had a blast.

“Both boys really related to each other, although it’s tough to communicate with Chase because his tumor is near the part of the brain that affects speech,” said Wiseman. “To me, having them meet was the greatest fulfillment. I gave them both signed t-shirts and pictures.

What a great day to have the boys meet, bowl with them and fulfill their dreams!”