CHOA spinal fusion patient gets chance to be honorary captain at ATL United match

ATLANTA — A Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta spinal fusion patient got the chance to be an honorary captain at an Atlanta United match earlier this month.

Ellie Glenn, who in addition to being a spinal fusion patient Division I collegiate soccer player at Sant Clara University received this special honor at the United match against Orlando City FC on July 15.

Glenn watched warm-ups on the sidelines, walked the team on the field and enjoyed the game with her family and friends from a suite.

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“Match day was amazing,” Glenn said. “Going on the field before the game was so cool and we had the best time watching from the owner’s suite.”

Earlier this year, Ellie met Atlanta United soccer goalie Brad Guzman during her stay at Egleston Hospital in Atlanta.

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At 8 years old, Glenn was diagnosed with scoliosis and after years of monitoring the progression of her curve, Ellie underwent spinal fusion surgery in December 2022.

“Getting to meet Brad was the highlight of my stay at Children’s,” said Ellie. “Thanks to the support and care I received here, I plan to be a doctor who listens and truly understands my patients, like my doctor, Dr. Bruce.”

The now 21-year-old has recovered from surgery and plans to attend medical school after graduating this summer from Santa Clara University.

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