Ashley Rodón Details How She and Yankees Husband Carlos Rodón Connected with Samantha Busch for IVF Gala (Exclusive)

In a heartfelt ceremony, Samantha Busch was presented with the Seeds of Hope Award at the Carlos Ródon Foundation’s Third Annual Willow Gala, an event celebrating efforts to support families undergoing IVF treatments. The gala took place on 24 August 2026 and served to highlight the incredible work of Samantha and her late husband, Kyle Busch, through their charitable initiative, The Bundle of Joy Fund.

Ashley Ródon, wife of New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Ródon, spoke with PEOPLE about her connection with Samantha. The two women developed a partnership that blossomed via social media when Ashley discovered a video in which Samantha discussed the importance of IVF coverage. She explained, “I looked at Carlos and I was like, ‘This is the partnership we need. We need to give Willow Grants to foundations like this.’” The collaboration has resulted in the provision of $187,500 in grants over the last year and a half.

During the gala, Ashley expressed how fortunate she and Carlos feel to have Samantha involved in their charitable efforts. She noted that their shared commitment to helping families in North and South Carolina has been particularly rewarding, as Carlos hails from North Carolina. “It’s been a big blessing for us,” Ashley stated, marveling at the synergy born from their mutual dedication to support couples facing fertility challenges.

Samantha’s acceptance speech was emotional and poignant. She reflected on the profound loss of her husband, saying, “Losing him has been the greatest heartbreak of my life.” Samantha candidly shared her struggles to understand the path laid out before her, acknowledging that there are many moments when she wishes circumstances were different.

As she addressed the audience, she articulated the significance of her foundation in keeping Kyle’s memory alive. “Every grant we give, every positive pregnancy test, every heartbeat, every baby placed into the arms of parents who wondered if that moment would ever come, Kyle is still a part of that,” Samantha emphasised, showcasing the impact of their mission.

Samantha also mentioned that her husband’s legacy would endure not only through their children, Brexton, 11, and Lennox, 4, but also through his achievements in racing and the generous spirit he embodied. “I hope this is part of how people remember him, too: Not just for the champion he was, but for his heart, his generosity, and for the more than 113 babies born because of this mission he cared so deeply about,” she added, highlighting the magnitude of Kyle’s contribution.

The gala proved to be not just a celebration of fundraising achievements but also a significant moment of reflection and remembrance for Samantha. As attendees gathered, it became clear that their collective effort goes beyond mere financial support; it resonates with hope and healing for families who yearn for the joy of parenthood.

The Seeds of Hope Award serves as a visible reminder of the strength found in community and collaboration during difficult times. It represents the culmination of an emotional journey that Samantha, Ashley, and Carlos have embarked on, united by a common goal to help families realise their dreams of having children.

In conclusion, the Third Annual Willow Gala not only honoured the commitment of The Bundle of Joy Fund but also reinforced the powerful connections forged through shared experiences. The evening left attendees inspired, as they learned about the lasting legacy of Kyle Busch and the ongoing efforts to create a brighter future for countless families.