WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) recently joined Senator Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) and Representative Carol Miller (R-W.Va.) in introducing legislation to redesignate a playground in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as the “Hearts of Gold Playground: In Honor of West Virginia Children and Families Impacted by Childhood Cancer.”

“I am so proud to join Senator Justice in the effort to redesignate this playground in honor of our youngest and bravest West Virginians fighting cancer. Childhood cancer takes an unimaginable toll on patients and their families and often impedes on their ability to enjoy simple hallmarks of childhood like playing at the park. It is my prayer that this playground honors the strength of children and their families battling pediatric cancer, and brings them pure fun and joy,” Senator Capito said.

“This playground is so much more than swings and slides. It’s a place that shows the true heart of West Virginia. Every West Virginia child and family that’s had to fight cancer is honored here, and Lord knows that battle is tougher than tough. My hope is that when kids are running and laughing here, when families are making memories here, it brings a little light into lives that have seen some real darkness. The brave children we have named this playground after truly have hearts of gold that will shine through this place,” Senator Justice said.


“It is a true privilege to join my colleagues in renaming this playground the ‘Hearts of Gold Playground: In Honor of West Virginia Children and Families Impacted by Childhood Cancer.’ This special place will stand as a lasting tribute to the strength and courage of our state’s children and their families. May it continue to bring joy, create lasting memories, and serve as a beacon of hope right here in the heart of West Virginia,” Representative Miller said.

BACKGROUND:

  • The primary playground located in the Grandview area at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has long served as a space for families to gather, children to play, and the community to come together in one of West Virginia’s most scenic and beloved parks.
  • The name carries symbolic meaning:
  • “Hearts of Gold” honors the incredible strength of those battling pediatric cancer.
  • The Gold Ribbon is the international symbol for childhood cancer awareness.

Additionally, Senator Capito helped author the Childhood Cancer Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research (STAR) Act, which is the most comprehensive childhood cancer bill ever passed by Congress.

# # #