Meghan (Meggie), the fleece and sweaters buyer on the Aerie team, sadly lost her husband, Michael, earlier this year after a long battle with brain cancer. Throughout his battle, Michael developed compassion for children in similar situations who may not fully understand their illness. Because of this, he wrote and published the book Adventures at the Hospital to bring fun to a normally sterile environment – as well as celebrate patients and doctors as the superheroes they are. Before Michael passed, he donated thousands of copies of his book to the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
To honor Meggie and Michael, our AEO and Aerie team, along with their family and friends, came together to fundraise in support of the hospital’s inaugural Cape Day. The special event celebrated the many heroes at the hospital – from the strong patients and unstoppable parent advocates, to the world-changing researchers, compassionate staff and life-saving doctors.
With AEO matching associate donations, more than $26,000 was donated to the hospital’s foundation, covering the entire cost of Cape Day and more! AEO offers a matching donation program in support of associates and the causes they hold near and dear to their hearts. We’re incredibly grateful to Meggie for sharing her story and are so proud to help support one of our own by giving back and celebrating Michael’s memory.