Inaugural "Cape Day" in Honor of Michael Ban

After months of planning, we are so excited to announce Aerie's support of the inaugural "Cape Day" at The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh in honor of Meggie Taylor's husband, and our dear friend, Michael Ban.

Heartbreakingly, Michael passed away in May 2022 after battling brain cancer for several years. Michael was the epitome of positivity and love - a spirit so contagious, he never met a stranger, and always had a smile on his face or a joke on the tip of his tongue. So to no surprise, Michael grew great 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 copies of his book to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh for families and patients to utilize during their time at the hospital.

Coincidentally, The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh is hosting its inaugural Cape Day this fall on November 10th. We're hoping what is already a phenomenon in Atlanta, Dallas, and other large cities will become equally as focal in Pittsburgh. And what better way to honor Michael than through a cause he was so personally passionate about?!

Aerie is working to raise money to sponsor the event in honor of Michael Ban and in support of our beloved Meggie. And we would LOVE your help!

We're raising money to ensure every patient is able to wear a cape and participate in this event, as well as underwrite the costs associated with the day. We hope that the hospital staff and patients do not have to worry about a financial burden but can instead celebrate and enjoy this fun day together.

If you are interested in contributing, each cape is $25, which is a great baseline to keep in mind. Please note this is a match eligible donation, meaning AEO will match any full-time associate's contribution to this cause.

We are collecting donations until Friday, October 28th to present the hospital with our final contribution before Cape Day.

P.S. Each cape will have an insert speaking to Michael's book and his legacy.