Event to benefit Dave Pluda set for Jan. 16
Local baseball umpires Bob Ciulla and Jeff Siegel formed a charity to help aid amateur sports officials diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses, titled UMPS Strike Out Cancer Foundation.
The group is holding its first fundraiser Monday, Jan. 16, to honor fellow umpire Dave Pluda, the past president of Umpires Metropolitan Professional Services (UMPS), an area umpire association, and cancer patient. Pluda was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer last June.
The event will be from 5-9 p.m. at Cuzzin’s Italian Restaurant at 1881 Oakton in Des Plaines.
“At one time or another I think we have all known someone impacted by cancer,” Ciulla said. “Our friend Dave has been battling cancer for several months now and has undergone a couple of surgeries and a few rounds of chemotherapy. Dave has been working off and on since he has been diagnosed. Unfortunately, he has not been able to work since he had surgery on his feet to alleviate an infection and complications from his chemotherapy.
“This has been a very difficult time for him and his family.”
The $50 fundraiser will include a buffet dinner, drinks, raffle and a guest speaker to be named. A cash bar will be available.
“Initially, we formed the foundation to help Dave, but we know there are, and will be, other Dave Pludas after he gets better,” Siegel said.
For more information about the fundraiser, or to donate, contact Siegel at jsiegel76@sbcglobal.net.