WASHINGTON, D.C. (WVDN) – U.S. Senator Jim Justice marked the Senate’s unanimous passage of his legislation to rename a playground in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve the “Hearts of Gold Playground: In Honor of West Virginia Children and Families Impacted by Childhood Cancer.”
“Seeing this pass the Senate during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is something really special. It sends a message to every West Virginia family touched by childhood cancer that we see you, we stand with you, and we will always remember the courageous kids who have fought this terrible disease. My hope is that every laugh heard here and every memory made here brings a little more light into their lives. The brave West Virginia children we have named this playground after truly have hearts of gold,” said Senator Jim Justice.
“Redesignating this playground is a great way to honor our youngest and bravest West Virginians fighting cancer,” Senator Capito said. “I applaud the Senate for passing this effort. It is my hope that this playground honors the strength of children and their families battling pediatric cancer and brings them pure fun and joy.”
BACKGROUND:
- Senator Justice introduced this bill alongside Senator Capito and Representative Miller on September 30, 2025, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
- 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.
- While Governor, Senator Jim Justice announced September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in West Virginia.
- Additionally, he signed a bill into law providing a special license plate for Curing Childhood Cancer.
