Ryan charity boxing match to support grief program

In the second annual Patrick J. Ryan Main Event charity boxing match, amateur boxers will lace up their gloves and square off in the ring to raise money to support Catholic Charities' Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide Program.

Hosted by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, the event was established by former Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan and his wife, Marie, and their family, after the loss of their son, Patrick J. Ryan, to suicide. Jim and Marie Ryan will serve as co-chairs for the fundraiser, running 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace.

Drury Lane will be transformed into a boxing hub for a night of eight to 10 Golden Glove-style amateur boxing fights. The evening also will include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, a raffle and ringside seating with dinner.

Boxing has been a family tradition for the Ryans, starting with Jim Ryan, who won the Middle Weight Golden Glove Championship in 1964. His sons - John, Jimmy and Matt - all grew up boxing.

"The Patrick J. Ryan Main Event was created to honor the memory of my brother, whom we lost to suicide," said John Ryan, chief of staff for Catholic Charities. "Over its 30-year history, the Catholic Charities Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide program has supported thousands of families and more than 211 children as they work through the grief process, all without cost to anyone. This event will directly support the LOSS program for children and youth, which specifically addresses the unique needs and emotions that children experience after losing a loved one to suicide."

Guests can buy individual tickets or tables, or become a sponsor of the event. All proceeds will go toward the LOSS Program. Tickets start at $175, including dinner and drinks. Cocktail hour will begin at 6 p.m. with the first match being announced at 7 p.m.

For tickets, call (312) 655-7290 or visit catholiccharities.net.