Centenary, Community "Cheers on Matthew Campbell" Feb. 1

SHREVEPORT, La.—Students, faculty, staff and members of the community will line the streets around Centenary College and into the fitness center Friday, Feb. 1 beginning at noon to film a get well message for Matthew Campbell, a 15-year old Youree Drive Middle School student who has had two heart transplants and one kidney transplant.

The Cheer on Matthew Campbell video will be sent to the Children's Medical Center in Dallas, where Matthew has remained since November 17th. "Matthew's road to recovery has been a long, hard journey, and I reminded him that many people back home were praying for him and his family, and cheering him on," said Betsy Eaves, Centenary College Chaplain. "I told Matthew that while we could not run this race for him, we believe in him and that there are hundreds of cheerleaders out here."

When Matthew Campbell, son of long-time Centenary conference and facilities coordinator Francine Campbell, needed a heart transplant in the fall of 2007, the Centenary community rallied around the family. In an effort to help the Campbell family with mounting financial needs, the campus held several fundraisers, including a jeans day and a benefit concert. After more than two months in the hospital, his body battling to recover, Matthew needs extra encouragement right now.

Besides creating get well message for Matthew, donations will also be accepted on behalf on Matthew such as get well cards, get well balloons, DVDs, and audio books. Monetary donations will also be collected. Community supporters are also asked to bring large banners and signs cheering Matthew on the road to recovery and home.

"We want to make sure Matthew knows that they are people cheering him on and that he is in our prayers," said Rick DelaHaya, Director of Marketing & Communication. "He has had a very difficult time and faces a long road to recovery, so this is our way to encourage him, and let him and the family know that the Centenary and surrounding community is with him on his journey."

Everybody is welcome for the "Cheer on Matthew Campbell" video taping and encouraged to arrive at the Fitness Center no later than 11:45 a.m. to begin filming. For more information, contact Rick DelaHaya at 318.869.5073 or Betsy Eaves, Centenary College Chaplain at 318.869.5157.
Come be part of the "Cheer on Matthew Campbell" experience and show your support!

For more information about Matthew's recovery, see http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/matthewcampbell.

About Centenary

Centenary College of Louisiana is a private, four-year arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1825, it is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Centenary is one of 16 colleges and universities constituting the Associated Colleges of the South and is regularly rated as one of the top colleges in the South.