Hockey Star Launches App to Connect and Encourage Kids

When Brendan Witt was a standout defenseman for the Washington Capitals from 1996 to 2006, he was a regular visitor to Children’s National. He also had a program called “Witter’s Hitters” that gave many patients the opportunity to attend hockey games and visit the locker room to meet the players and coaches. Now retired from hockey and living in Montana, Witt was back in town on Wednesday to be honored as one of the best 40 Capitals of all time. “It’s nice to be honored,” he said, “but as soon as I knew I’d be back in Washington, I really wanted to visit Children’s National again. The children I met here meant so much to me, and I have fond memories of my visits.” In addition to meeting and encouraging children and families, Witt also introduced a new app that he and his wife Salima have developed called Angel Mail. The app allows people to send positive thoughts and encouragement to anyone. Because of Witt’s relationship with Children’s National, he and Salima decided to donate proceeds from the app to the health system. It was one of the children he met in the hospital who inspired him to create the app. “I’ve kept in touch with several of the children I met during my playing days, and one of them recently fell ill again,” he said. “One thing I’ve learned is that when children are sick and not feeling well, they often don’t want visitors – but they want to keep in touch with their friends and loved ones. The Angel Mail app is our way to give back to Children’s National and the children and families who have inspired us.” Watch a video of Witt's visit or read ESPN's article "Brendan Witt Delivering Angel Mail." You can download the app at the iTunes app store. Update: See Comcast Sportsnet's video story, "Caps Hardcore Defenseman Shows Softer Side."