NEW ORLEANS - Appalachian State University women's basketball took time away from the court during its road trip in New Orleans for a visit to the American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge on Monday.

Student-athletes and coaches visited for an hour with cancer patients that receive treatment at the facility, getting the patients' mind off their battle with the deadly disease. The team shared stories and laughs with the patients as they interacted with each other.

The team arrived in the late afternoon at the facility where volunteers gave the team a tour as well while getting a glimpse of what Hope Lodge offers. 

“Today was a great opportunity for our team to impact the cancer community at the Hope Lodge of New Orleans,” said head coach Angel Elderkin. “ We loved the watching our players interact, visit and most of all put smiles on the faces of patients and their families. We are grateful for the Sun Belt for organizing this visit.”

Guests of the Hope Lodge are cancer patients receiving outpatient treatment away from home, while it also eases the financial strains that come with this disease. The New Orleans Hope Lodge has welcome guests since 2006. There are currently over 30 locations across the United States.